You’ll get a clear snapshot of how a handful of legal battles forced McDonald’s to change policies, protect its brand, and rethink how it treats employees and customers. This article shows which six lawsuits reshaped the company and why those cases still matter to your experience with the brand today.
Expect concise summaries that connect each case to real-world consequences — from workplace disputes and trademark fights to high-profile PR and product controversies. You’ll see how courtroom outcomes translated into corporate shifts you might notice at the counter, in advertising, or in the news.
The 1994 Stella Liebeck hot coffee lawsuit
You probably remember the “hot coffee” headline, but the case involved severe third-degree burns after Stella Liebeck spilled coffee in her lap. The jury found McDonald’s served coffee at temperatures that could cause serious burns and awarded damages to punish negligence. Read a concise overview of the case and its facts at Liebeck v. McDonald’s Restaurants – Wikipedia.
National Labor Relations Board wrongful termination case
You read about the NLRB alleging McDonald’s violated workers’ rights when franchise employees were disciplined for organizing. The board at one point treated McDonald’s as a potential joint employer with franchisees, which raised questions about corporate responsibility.
You’ll see negotiations, ALJ rulings, and appeals shaping how the company manages labor disputes. Those legal fights pushed changes in franchise oversight and public scrutiny of McDonald’s labor practices.
McDonald’s trademark battles over the ‘Mc’ prefix
You’ve probably noticed dozens of brands using “Mc” and wondered who owns it. McDonald’s has repeatedly defended that prefix, suing or threatening action against local and international rivals to protect its branding.
Smaller firms have pushed back, like McPatel in India, which sued McDonald’s after receiving threats over using “Mc.” Read more about that dispute at McPatel v. McDonald’s.
2004 racial discrimination class-action lawsuit
You read about employees who accused McDonald’s of racial bias in hiring and promotions in 2004.
The suit claimed systemic discrimination and led to internal reviews and policy changes at some stores.
You may find details of the case and its wider context in coverage of McDonald’s legal history, which highlights recurring discrimination claims against the company.
Defamation suit impacting McDonald’s PR
You remember the defamation case that became a major PR headache for McDonald’s.
It drew wide media attention and forced the company to respond publicly to sustained negative claims.
The legal fight showed how a lawsuit can amplify criticism instead of silencing it.
It prompted changes to how McDonald’s managed external communications and crisis messaging.
That episode remains a caution about reputational risk and the limits of litigation for protecting a brand.
Misleading McRib marketing lawsuit from 2025
You saw headlines in late 2025 when a federal class-action suit claimed the McRib’s name and shape misled customers about its ingredients.
The complaint, filed in Illinois, argued the sandwich wasn’t made from actual rib meat and challenged McDonald’s advertising.
McDonald’s pushed back, calling the claims misleading and defending its product labeling and marketing.
Read more about the lawsuit details at USA Today’s coverage of the class-action McRib lawsuit.
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As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
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