Ralph J. McDonald Wildlife Art Copyright Lawsuit: Schedule A Case No. 1:26-cv-11713
Ralph J. McDonald Files a Federal Copyright Lawsuit on September 24, 2026, in the Northern District of Illinois – Wildlife and Hunting Illustrations, Copyright Claims, and Docket Updates
Ralph J. McDonald filed a federal copyright infringement lawsuit on September 24, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The lawsuit reportedly concerns the unauthorized reproduction and commercial use of copyrighted wildlife illustrations associated with McDonald, an American artist recognized for his realistic depictions of wildlife, hunting scenes, and outdoor subjects.
The lawsuit was filed against defendants identified through Schedule A, a format commonly used in intellectual property enforcement actions involving multiple online sellers and e-commerce businesses.
Third-party reporting identifies three copyrighted illustrations involving wildlife and hunting themes as the works at issue. The specific infringement allegations, accused products, and copyright ownership claims should be confirmed through the complaint and supporting exhibits.
Case Information
Plaintiff: Ralph J. McDonald
Defendants: The Partnerships and Unincorporated Associations Identified on Schedule A
Court: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Case No.: 1:26-cv-11713
Date Filed: September 24, 2026
Presiding Judge: Hon. LaShonda A. Hunt
Nature of Action: Copyright Infringement – 17 U.S.C. § 101 (Copyright Act)
Reported Copyright Registrations:
VA 2-476-390
VA 2-476-391
VA 2-476-392
Reported Works at Issue: Three wildlife and hunting-themed illustrations
Case Update: On September 24, 2026, Ralph J. McDonald initiated a federal copyright infringement lawsuit against defendants identified through Schedule A. Subsequent third-party reporting associated the action with three copyrighted illustrations and approximately 31 online seller defendants. The specific court filings, any requests for temporary injunctive relief, and the outcomes of subsequent motions have not been independently confirmed.
About the Plaintiff
Ralph J. McDonald, also known professionally as R.J. McDonald, is an American wildlife artist known for realistic paintings and illustrations depicting North American animals, outdoor landscapes, hunting traditions, and nature.
McDonald studied illustration at the Harris School of Advertising Art in Nashville, Tennessee, before pursuing a career in wildlife painting. His work has included commissioned portraits of state wildlife and numerous limited-edition prints.
He has been recognized for his contributions to wildlife art and conservation, including being named Ducks Unlimited's National Artist of the Year in 1981. His paintings and prints have also supported conservation fundraising efforts.
The specific copyrighted works asserted in this lawsuit should be verified through the complaint, registration records, and supporting evidence.
Monitor the Case
Public case information for Ralph J. McDonald v. The Partnerships and Unincorporated Associations Identified on Schedule A, Case No. 1:26-cv-11713, is linked through PacerMonitor.
PacerMonitor provides access to federal court case information, although certain documents and features may require registration or payment. Court filings and case status may change over time.
The allegations are claims made by the plaintiff and do not, by themselves, establish liability.
Named in a Schedule A Lawsuit?
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Disclaimer
This page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Case information may change as court proceedings develop. Readers should verify current case details through official court records. Viewing this page or contacting Rotek Law does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
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