Owl Tutoring stands up to FAU Bully in lawsuit

Summary :

After 10 years, FAU is suing me and Owl Tutoring alleging trademark infringement for using the name “Owl Tutoring” despite starting my business on campus while a student. Settlement negotiations failed so the case is in litigation.  I have a great lawyer with a strong robust defense. However, I lack the financial resources to see the case to completion. Please consider donating to support this local business that educates not only FAU students, but those in the surrounding community as well. 


Lawyer bio: Click here to view Jim Bikoff's Bio 

Details:

I started Owl Tutoring as a student on FAU campus in 2008 and the university promoted and endorsed my services (stamped my flyers, gave me a table to use for tutoring, reserved class rooms, professor announced my services etc).  The company hired and trained FAU students as tutors.  Over the years, we moved off campus to better serve the local community helping thousands of students achieve academic success. However, this positive community impact may soon be coming to an end. 

In January of last year (2019), FAU sent a cease and desist letter for my business. My lawyers sent them substantial affirmative evidence of my right to use the name Owl Tutoring based on laches, estoppel by acquiescence and unclean hands. Their outside counsel replied something along the lines of “FAU does not agree and is looking into other options.”  Then, in December, they sent a draft of a lawsuit concerning the brand/trademark and alleging some new privacy issues. While we were amicably resolving the alleged privacy issues, FAU without warning filed the lawsuit on December 9th.

Why I need your help:

I believe FAU is bullying me and attempting to deplete my financial resources to win this case.  A combination of public opinion and additional funds are needed to see this case to its completion. With your help, Owl Tutoring can  continue to educate thousands of students in the local community. 

How you can help:

1.       Donate

2.       Leave a comment or testimonial

3.       Provide any connections to reporters, lawyers, media, politicians, influencers etc.

4.       Share this campaign with friends and family


Thank you for taking the time to view my campaign!

Sincerely,
Neil Parsont