Legal Question in Intellectual Property in California

I think you should see an attorney with intellectual property experience as soon as possible, as you might have a statute of limitations problem. Try to get a 1/2 hour "free initial consultation" and be prepared to show all your communications with the firm and all subsequent information showing that they are using your idea and that they are making money from it. Unless the major corporation carried on some communications with you, your case is relatively weak, since merely submitting an idea usually creates little or no obligation, but it's certainly worth a try. I assume your "invention" is neither patented (by you) or patent pending.

I am well versed in intellectual property, and the laws specifically pertaining to sale of ideas, and protection of ideas and inventions even when they are not patented, as part of the process of selling inventions to businesses. It sounds like it may be a strong case. I handle some cases on a contingency fee basis. Please contact me immediately so we may discuss this matter.

Best,

Daniel Bakondi, Esq.

[email protected]

415-450-0424

The Law Office of Daniel Bakondi, APLC

870 Market Street, Suite 1161

San Francisco CA 94102

http://www.danielbakondi.com

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This communication may contain confidential information, privileged information, or attorney work product. If you are not the intended recipient or received this message in error, any use or distribution of this message is strictly prohibited and unlawful. Please notify the sender immediately, and delete this message. No attorney-client nor confidential relationship is created through this communication. Nothing communicated or provided constitutes legal advice nor a legal opinion unless it so specifies and written agreement for attorney services has been entered into. Attorney licensed in California only. Your issue may be time sensitive and may result in loss of rights if you do not act in time. Thank you.

As a Franchise Attorney I can say the following. In addition to a statute of limitations issue (you say "odd years later") did you have them sign a nondisclosure or similar agreement? If not, I agree with the first attorney answer - the case is very weak. But it doesn't hurt to consult with a good intellectual property or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation