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Photography / Image Rights — who owns code written with Copilot

Started by newbie_employee_NY · Jun 30, 2025 · 1,702 views · 17 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
NE
newbie_employee_NY OP

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

who owns code written with Copilot. I've been dealing with this for about 8 weeks now and the situation isn't improving.

This involves original creative work over the past 6 months. I do not have documentation proving my ownership and timeline.

What are the risks if I pursue this? What's the likely timeline?

DB
desperate_business_owner_CO

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.

CD
confused_driver_help

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.

LT
LandlordTom_TX

I went through almost the exact same thing.

What worked for me was having everything documented. It took 3-6 months but was worth it.

HM
help_me_tenant_question

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.

TL
Mod_TermsLaw Moderator

Attorney here. Here's my take on the legal issues.

This is a common situation and the law is fairly clear. Under 17 U.S.C. § 106, substantially similar.

You should consult with a local attorney who handles these cases. Many offer free initial consultations.

TF
TechStartup_Founder

I've dealt with this before.

In my case, it took about 3-6 months to resolve. The key was having everything documented.

SM
SeniorDevMike_PDX

I went through almost the exact same thing.

The biggest mistake people make in this situation is hiring an attorney to send the initial letter. I'd recommend being patient with the process instead.

FC
frustrated_contractor_MA

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

FD
frustrated_driver_TX

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

IG
InsuranceGuy_FL

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

I ended up having everything documented, which cost about $3-6 but saved me a lot more in the long run.

DR
desperate_renter_TX

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

OD
OpenSourceLawyer_Dan

I've dealt with this before.

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

AB
anon_buyer_CO

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.

JC
just_curious_dev_2025

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

AF
asking_for_friend_student_MA

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.

IG
InsuranceGuy_FL

I've dealt with this before.

In my case, it took about 2-4 months to resolve. The key was hiring an attorney to send the initial letter.

FS
frustrated_student_2025

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.

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