Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Illinois

I have software I developed in 2000 with embedded copyright notices in the code. I then officially registered with the LOC in 2010 and again in 2011 for both software products. It's in the Health-Care industry dealing with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 9th revision code set to the 10th revision code set General Equivalence Mapping.

Recently I have become aware of companies beginning development of similar software. Instead of issuing a C&D letter, I'd like help in writing an "introduction to license my software for a reasonable expense," a "win-win" alternative.

ICDGEM


Asked on 5/18/11, 2:36 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bruce Burdick Burdick Law Firm

This is a relatively easy task for any intellectual property lawyer. If I understand you correctly, you have copyrighted software developed in 2000, but never registered until 2010. You have no patent on the software. You are not aware of these companies using your copyrighted software, so you are not in a position to write a CDL (cease and desist letter). You want to offer to license your software to these companies to save them the money they would have to spend developing an alternative. You believe that approach is a "win-win" option.

If I understand all that correctly, this is something that would take about 15 minutes for an experienced IP lawyer like me. That is inexpensive, less than $100. You are wise to ask for help as if you do this wrong, you will simply prompt these companies to steal your code, modify it enough to avoid copyright infringement, and pay you nothing. The key is the price, which could even be a royalty so these companies have no upfront costs. Call or email and I will be glad to assist you.

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Answered on 5/18/11, 9:50 pm


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