Persons Name Domain

[kirkins]

I have been told that I should drop my domain stephen-harper.com because it is the name of the PrimeMinister of Canada.

Is this true in all cases or does it depend on what is on the web page. It seems strange that someone wanting to create a fan page for a band wouldn't be able to use the bands name as the domain.

Also what about dead peoples names? Winston-ChurchHill.com or other historical figures. If these are legal then what about situations where the person only died a few weeks ago?

Also who is to say Stephen-Harper.com refers to the PrimeMinister it could simply mean Stephen who works for Harper magazine.

I know I probably won't get the fact the law is against me but am wondering what other people think about this issue.

 

[miller]

You do not have to drop the name unless it’s a trade mark etc... (There are one or two exceptions) A lot would depend on what you put up on the site etc as to if the other party could try any sort dispute ... it can be the name of your goldfish or in 1835 on board the Jane a STEPHEN Wilson and in 1836 onboard the Swan out of Hull a William HARPER were both killed whilst whaling….. It could be a site dedicated to there memory and what views that they may speculatively have today….
it doesn’t matter it’s about legitimising you use of a word should any dispute arise they have no prior claim to it than you....

 

[enlytend]

I'd certainly be very careful not to put any content on it related to the PM or to Harper's magazine!

Deceased famous people - lots of factors here, but you risk running into trouble with their estate and heirs. I believe you MAY be OK if it's a fan site which doesn't IN ANY WAY profit from the name and makes it clear that it's not associated with or an official site of that person. But again it could depend on the details and I'm not a lawyer so take that as a somewhat-educated opinion, not a fact.

Best to stay away from companies, product names, famous people, groups altogether.