Legal Question in Intellectual Property in New York
unorthorized use of material for book
I entered into an agreement to share research with an author for the purpose of co-authoring a book. He has used my research and contacts and published something without my permission. He now looks set to enter into a film deal claiming all contacts are his alone. E mail clearly states we are co-authors and info is for book alone. How do I proceed to protect my interests. The event was major news many years ago but my story was never released and has been put in print recently and is about to be used in movie.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: unorthorized use of material for book
It sounds like you will need to file suit. So test the strength of your case by going over it in detail with an attorney.
Re: unorthorized use of material for book
You must act quickly to protect your interests. First you must file an Order to Show Cause probably in Federal Court to stop further distribution. The OTSC must have a temporary restraining order and also seek to have all proceeds put aside until properly split up.
Then you must file suit to be given your intellectual property rights and to get money already paid back for you. DO NOT DELAY. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY. If you would like to speak to me, follow the links below I would be interested in discussing this more with you.
Good Luck.
Re: unorthorized use of material for book
I can't say I disagree with my colleagues though I would suggest other tactics before you start spending thousands of dollars on legal fees. While this may be the eventual necessity, there are some preliminary steps you can take. A lawyer should begin by reviewing your agreement. If you'd like to call for an initial, free consult, you should contact me.
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