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The Hecker Law Group Files Federal Lawsuit on Behalf of Ray Liotta against Nerium International for Violation of Publicity Rights and False EndorsementLOS ANGELES --(Business Wire)-- Actor Ray Liotta filed a lawsuit on March 5, 2014 in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (CV14-1632-CAS) against Nerium International, Inc. and affiliated Nerium Partners ("Nerium") for misappropriation and unlawful use of Liotta's name, likeness, image, identity, and persona. Liotta is represented in the lawsuit by intellectual property attorney Gary Hecker of The Hecker Law Group based in Los Angeles, California. Nerium is a self-described multilevel marketing company that sells a skin care product named "Nerium AD." The federal complaint alleges that in October 2013, Nerium began using and distributing Liotta's name and photographs on web sites and soial media purporting to show "before and after" results of Liotta using Nerium AD. According to the complaint, however, Liotta has never used or endorsed any Nerium product, and never gave permission to Nerium to use Liotta's name or likeness. "When someone creates a false endorsement using Ray Liotta's name or likeness, they can expect legal action," said attorney Gary Hecker. The lawsuit charges legal violations of Liotta's publicity and privacy rights under California law and false endorsement and unfair competition under federal law. "I've never even heard of Nerium, let alone used their products," said Ray Liotta. "They can deal with these doctored photos in court." Liotta is seeking compensatory and punitive damages and an injunction against Nerium. About The Hecker Law Group The Hecker Law Group, www.hh.com, is among the nation's leading intellectual property law firm boutiques. The firm's clients have included many of the world's most innovative and valued companies, startups and individuals in technology, business, and entertainment. Founded in 1988, The Hecker Law Group has extensive experience and expertise in all areas of intellectual property law including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, domain names, entertainment, branding and licensing. The firm's legal services include obtaining, enforcing, and defending intellectual property rights. The firm handles complex intellectual property litigation in federal and state courts, before the International Trade Commission and before the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
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