Legal Question in Business Law in New Jersey

transfer of copyright

I have worked for a NJ wedding studio as freelance videographer, an independent contractor, since July, 2007. The company is virtually bankrupt and the owner is no where to be found. The story was run on 7 On Your Side of WABC-TV and NJ cable news.

I am holding 12 videotapes hostage even though each work order says:

�This assignment sheet must be returned with digital files, or video in order to be paid.�

�At all times, any pictures taken and/or any video footage taken are the exclusive property of XXX Studios.�

Can the studio maintain the copyright ownership after failing to pay me?. They have contracted me to videotape 22 weddings, worth of $10,532.31, and have paid me $2,000.00 only. Who has the copyright to the tapes I am holding and I have turned in but unpaid for?

Recently I had a phone call from a bride�s father claiming that he had a transfer of copyright ownership from the company�s owner. Refusing to pay me the $500.00 compensation, he accused me for holding his property. He repeated that he was a police chief in very threatening manners. If the copyright is transferred to him, should the accompanied duty, paying for the compensation, go to him, too?


Asked on 1/19/08, 1:14 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
John Corbett Corbett Law Firm LLC

Re: transfer of copyright

The property and IP issues here are way too complex to answer in a short message. I suggest that you give a call to your lawyer. Meanwhile, don't turn anything over to anybody and don't be intimidated.

My firm handles matters of this type, however it may be easier for you to work with a lawyer whose office is closer to you. If I can be of further help to you, call or email.

See also: http://info.corbettlaw.net/lawguru.htm

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Answered on 1/19/08, 1:40 am
Daniel Pepper Pepper Law Group, LLC

Re: transfer of copyright

I agree with the previous post that there are a number of moving parts here, most importantly, what the terms of any written agreements or correspondence indicate about the terms of your arrangement.

Please let me know if you'd like to discuss your situation further.

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Answered on 1/19/08, 2:02 pm


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