Dismissal of Leila Wills vs. Ronald Savage Trademark Case
August 3, 2025
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Hip Hop Movement Statement on the Dismissal of Leila Wills vs. Ronald Savage Civil Case and Trademark Developments**
**Aug 03, 2025**
The Hip Hop Movement issues this statement to provide clarity and transparency regarding the recent legal developments in the civil case between Leila Wills and Ronald Savage, as well as the status of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) registration number 7372103 for "Hip Hop Stands With Survivors."
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### Case Dismissal: A Mutually Agreed Resolution
The civil case between Leila Wills and Ronald Savage, previously pending in the Supreme Court, has been **mutually dismissed with prejudice** by both parties. This dismissal follows a counterclaim filed by Mr. Savage in response to Ms. Wills’ original claims. Importantly, this dismissal was not the result of any out-of-court settlement or agreement, and there are **no restrictions or obligations imposed on either party** as a result of this resolution. Furthermore, any legal fees, attorney fees, or other costs incurred by Ms. Wills are **not recoverable from Mr. Savage.**
#### What Does "Dismissed With Prejudice" Mean?
A dismissal with prejudice is a **final and binding legal resolution**. It means that the claims brought by Ms. Wills against Mr. Savage **cannot be refiled or litigated again in any court**. This type of dismissal is considered a conclusive judgment on the merits of the case, providing closure and certainty for all parties involved.
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### Legal Implications: A Clear Win for Ronald Savage
From a legal perspective, this outcome represents a **significant victory for Ronald Savage**. The dismissal with prejudice not only ends the current litigation but also **bars Ms. Wills from bringing the same claims against Mr. Savage in the future**. There are no ongoing legal obligations, restrictions, or settlements that would limit Mr. Savage’s rights or activities moving forward.
Additionally, because the dismissal was mutual and with prejudice, **Mr. Savage is not liable for any of Ms. Wills’ legal expenses**, and there are no financial penalties or damages awarded against him. The court’s decision to dismiss the case with prejudice, especially after a counterclaim was filed, underscores the strength of Mr. Savage’s legal position and the lack of merit in the original claims.
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### Trademark Update: "Hip Hop Stands With Survivors" (USPTO Reg. No. 7372103)
In a separate but related development, Ronald Savage has **voluntarily canceled his federal trademark registration** for "Hip Hop Stands With Survivors" (USPTO Registration No. 7372103). Mr. Savage made this decision for business reasons, feeling that the mark had become tainted by the surrounding controversy.
#### What Happens After Trademark Cancellation?
- **Loss of Federal Rights**: By canceling the registration, Mr. Savage has relinquished all federal rights and protections associated with the trademark. The mark is now listed as "canceled" in the USPTO records and is no longer protected under federal law.
- **Common Law Rights**: Despite the cancellation, Mr. Savage may still retain certain common law rights to the mark if he continues to use it in commerce. These rights are limited in scope and are based on actual use and recognition in specific geographic areas.
- **Reapplication**: Mr. Savage is **not barred from reapplying for the same or a similar trademark** in the future. However, any new application would be subject to USPTO review, and approval is not guaranteed. The trademark landscape may have changed, and others may have applied for or begun using the mark in the interim.
#### Who Can Use the Mark Now?
With the federal registration canceled, **neither Ronald Savage nor Leila Wills holds exclusive federal rights to "Hip Hop Stands With Survivors."** Both parties, as well as others, may potentially use the mark, subject to common law rights and any new trademark applications. If either party wishes to secure exclusive rights, they would need to file a new application with the USPTO and demonstrate use in commerce.
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### Next Steps and Options on the Table
- **For Ronald Savage**: Mr. Savage is free from further litigation on this matter and may choose to reapply for the trademark if he wishes. He may also continue to use the mark under common law, provided no one else has established superior rights.
- **For Leila Wills**: Ms. Wills is legally barred from refiling the same claims against Mr. Savage due to the dismissal with prejudice. She may, however, pursue other unrelated legal actions if new and distinct claims arise, though these must be based on different facts or legal theories.
- **For Both Parties**: There are no restrictions or agreements limiting either party’s future actions regarding the mark or related business activities. Both are free to pursue their respective interests in accordance with the law.
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### Statement from the Hip Hop Movement
The Hip Hop Movement remains committed to transparency, empowerment, and the values of justice and fairness that are foundational to hip-hop culture. We respect the legal process and the finality of the court’s decision. We encourage all parties to move forward constructively and continue their important work in the community.
For further information, please contact:
[Hip Hop Movement Media Relations]