Longhorn Steakhouse successfully sued Longhorn Wings for trademark infringement. It is hard to understand how the case got so far. First, a trademark clearance search would have revealed the potential problem. Second, the chain restaurant undoubtedly sent a cease and desist letter. An experienced trademark attorney would have understood the weak position of the Wing establishment and encouraged the client to strongly consider settlement. It is unusual for a pretty clear-cut case to get this far. It does however, exemplify the consequences of failing to invest in a low-cost trademark clearance search before launching your brand. This could have been avoided for under $1,000.