Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Illinois

Writer's contract

I am contributing a chapter to a

book. I am not being paid; I am being

offered a bio in the book that will let

readers know about me, my services

and my Web site.

I have been asked to sign a contract

(I haven't received it yet) that, as I

understand it, will give the person

putting this project together the right

to use my material in more than the

book, i.e. CDs, programs, workshops.

I also have the right to use it, though

I have to refer always back to the

original book

Does this contract sound typical?

What do I need to know to protect

my rights in this? Or is this

something in which I really need an

attorney to advise me?

I am in Illinois; however, the person

in charge of the project is in

California.


Asked on 2/18/08, 7:52 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Patrick Tracy Patrick J. Tracy, Esq, P.E.,

Re: Writer's contract

In general, you are asked to ign a contract for a "work-for-hire" agreement. It does not sound as though you are receiving significant consideration for the deminishment of your rights. I suggest you renogotiate this agreement or seek legal counsel to assist you.

Good Luck!

Read more
Answered on 2/19/08, 5:29 am


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