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Mattel Seeks Mistrial In Bratz Copyright Case

SANTA ANA (AP) — Toy giant Mattel Inc. is seeking a mistrial in a federal copyright infringement lawsuit against rival MGA Entertainment Inc. after remarks made in court by MGA's CEO Isaac Larian.

In court papers filed late Wednesday, Mattel said its right to a fair trial was jeopardized because Larian testified that Mattel killed his father and destroyed his family, among other things. The statements aren't true, Mattel argues, and have tainted the jury.

Mattel and MGA have been battling for years over the rights to the popular Bratz doll line, which debuted in 2001.

Mattel alleges the pouty-lipped toy was designed by its employee, Carter Bryant, who then secretly took the idea to MGA.

A judge is reviewing the motion, which asks him to declare a mistrial or tell the jury the statements are false.

(© Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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