Disney Graphics.

Customer wants to use some...I don't think they can..

[Terabytes]

I have a new client that wants some Disney graphics incorporated into their site...

I'm sure Disney has some issues with that type of thing...

The client stated that all I need is: Disney artwork, and logos, are properties of Disney.
To utilize the graphics...

I think that's B$...
(and I'm sure there's probably money involved to use them...)

I've attempted to contact Disney's legal department, and so far no reply from them...(2) days

I'm not going to risk a court date with Disney...
and the client is on hold until I hear back from Disney's legal dept...

can anyone shed some light on the copyright issues concerning using these types of images?

Thanks in advance!
Tera

[jimbeetle]

I'm sure Disney has some issues with that type of thing...

That's putting it mildly. Disney has a rep of being very, very aggressive in defending its IP.

[axgrindr]

Disney™ is one of the main reasons that works are not falling into public domain any more. The lifetime of copyrights have been extended mainly due to lobbying from Disney™ so they can keep their precious Mickey Mouse™ in their control.
They have legions of lawyers looking after their concerns.
I wouldn't touch their property with a ten foot pole.

[monkeythumpa]

You can use trademarked images as long as you abide by fair use. Fair use allows you to, among other things, use the images for parody or critique. If the "spirit" of the trademark is changed enough you now have a derivative work. Now because so much of this is subjective, this is where you can get into trouble. What is changed for you might not be for the trademark holder and could end up costing a lot of money, even if you win the case. So it is ultimately up to your client, once you make them understand the possible consequences.

[Essex_boy]

To use it without their permission would be suicide.

[malachite]

To use it without their permission would be suicide.

Agreed. I wouldn't do it, even if it meant losing the client. Their ignorance isn't worth the clobbering you'd get from Disney.

If it's a big job and you don't want to lose the client, it might be worth your while getting a contract drawn up wherein the client:

a) agrees to provide you with written confirmation authorising them to use the images (including copy correspondence from Disney granting permission) ; and

b) agrees to 'indemnify and save you harmless' in the event of any claims arising for breach of copyright

[themediamage]

Some guy was in legal troubles with Disney because he had tattoos showing their characters!

Each to their own I guess. :D