Members-only forum — Email to join

Patent Infringement Question — fanfiction and derivative works

Started by need_help_employee_OH · Feb 13, 2025 · 1,793 views · 14 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
NH
need_help_employee_OH OP

I'm in a difficult situation and trying to figure out my next steps.

fanfiction and derivative works. I've been dealing with this for about 2 months now and the situation isn't improving.

This involves software/code I developed over the past 19 months. I do not have documentation proving my ownership and timeline.

Am I overthinking this or is this a real legal issue worth pursuing?

AF
asking_for_friend_student_advice

Have you tried reaching out to your state's attorney general? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

TL
Mod_TermsLaw Moderator

I specialize in this area of law. Here's my take on the legal issues.

The legal framework here involves both federal and state law. At the federal level, the DMCA safe harbor provisions. Your state may provide additional protections.

Before taking legal action, consider sending a formal demand letter. In many cases, this alone resolves the issue.

AC
anon_contractor_CA

I work in this industry and unfortunately this is very common. The good news is that when people actually push back with legal representation, companies usually settle.

NL
NursePractitioner_LA

Been there. Here's what I learned.

In my case, it took about 1-3 months to resolve. The key was escalating to a supervisor/manager.

NC
newbie_creator_help

I had a similar issue and ended up consulting with an attorney. It was worth the $200-300 for the initial consultation just to understand my rights.

WP
worried_parent_2025

Following this thread — I'm in a very similar situation. Would love to hear how it turns out.

RM
RestaurantOwner_Miami

Been there. Here's what I learned.

What worked for me was escalating to a supervisor/manager. It took 1-3 months but was worth it.

WI
worried_investor_2023

Just want to point out — the statute of limitations might be a factor here. In some states it's as short as 1-2 years. Don't sit on this too long.

GL
GigWorker_LA

Not a lawyer, but I have direct experience with this.

The biggest mistake people make in this situation is filing with the appropriate government agency. I'd recommend gathering evidence first instead.

NI
newbie_investor_NC

This happened to me too. Have you tried filing a complaint with the relevant agency? In my case they investigated and it got resolved without needing a lawyer.

NS
newbie_student_OH

Have you tried reaching out to your state's legal aid society? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

AS
anon_student_legal

This happened to me too. Have you tried filing a complaint with the relevant agency? In my case they investigated and it got resolved without needing a lawyer.

HM
help_me_parent_question

NAL, but from what I've read, you should send a written demand. That said, definitely get a lawyer to look at the specifics.

LT
LandlordTom_TX

I've seen this play out several times in my field.

What worked for me was hiring an attorney to send the initial letter. It took 2-4 months but was worth it.

Want to participate in this discussion?

Email owner@terms.law to request access