ArentFox Schiff Advises Christian Louboutin in High-Profile Joint Counterfeiter Suit

“This lawsuit seeks to stop the unlawful use of Christian Louboutin trademarks and protect loyal customers from being targeted by counterfeit artists,” said AFS Chairman and Fashion & Retail Law leader Anthony V. Lupo. “Filing alongside Meta is an important step and a warning to counterfeiters seeking to profit off the iconic trademarks of valuable luxury brands.” The AFS team advising Louboutin includes Anthony Lupo, Sara Schneider, and Oscar Figueroa.

Filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, the suit states that since June 2020, Alejo has trafficked counterfeit goods – including fake Louboutin-branded shoes, handbags, and accessories – on Facebook and Instagram, which violates Meta’s terms of service and Instagram’s terms of use. Additionally, the suit alleges that Alejo infringed on Louboutin’s intellectual property rights and trademarks.

“This lawsuit is a clear signal to those who would seek to engage in similar abuses that this behavior will not be tolerated,” Meta said in a statement. “Meta and Christian Louboutin plan to continue their enforcement efforts against counterfeiting and hold those who abuse our policies accountable.” Read Meta’s press release here.

ArentFox Schiff has the largest fashion and retail legal group of any major US firm. Our team advises fashion and design houses, apparel manufacturers and retailers, and luxury goods companies. Our fashion attorneys act as outside general counsel and regulatory and retail counsel for a number of well-known designer brands such as Diane von Furstenberg, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Diesel, Fila, Marni, YSL, Balenciaga, Benetton, Escada, and Victoria's Secret. Learn more here.