Mattel Rightful Owner of Bratz, Judge Rules

A federal judge has ruled that Mattel Inc. is the legal owner of Bratz dolls and may recall any unsold dolls. The decision could mark the end of Van Nuys-based Bratz manufacturer, MGA Entertainment Inc. The court order states that MGA may no longer manufacture, sell, advertise or license Bratz dolls or items with the Bratz name. At the earliest, the order will not take effect until Mattel and MGA meet in court Feb. 11, according to the Los Angeles Times. The court order stemmed from a July jury finding that the Bratz creator was working at Mattel on an exclusive contract when he developed the idea for the doll line, the Times reported. The legal battle over Bratz has lasted for more than four years. MGA plans to appeal the ruling.