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Trade Secret Misappropriation — can I sell AI-generated images commercially

Started by asking_for_friend_buyer_today · Nov 26, 2025 · 1,268 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.
AF
asking_for_friend_buyer_today OP

Quick background on my situation — any input appreciated.

can I sell AI-generated images commercially. I've been dealing with this for about 14 months now and the situation isn't improving.

This involves content I created over the past 7 months. I do have documentation proving my ownership and timeline.

Do I have a strong case? What should my next steps be?

CA
ConsumerAdvocate

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.

FH
frustrated_homeowner_MA

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.

TL
Mod_TermsLaw Moderator

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

The key question is whether the applicable statute of limitations has run. Depending on your jurisdiction, you typically have 17 U.S.C. § 106 years for this type of claim.

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

HM
help_me_driver_help

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

DN
DataPrivacy_Nerd

I went through almost the exact same thing.

The biggest mistake people make in this situation is escalating to a supervisor/manager. I'd recommend following the formal complaint procedure instead.

IG
InsuranceGuy_FL

I've dealt with this before.

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

CA
ConsumerAdvocate

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

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

PJ
Paralegal_Jen

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.

AD
anon_dev_NY

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

NH
need_help_renter_NC

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.

JC
just_curious_renter_MA

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

JC
just_curious_employee_CA

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.

FK
FreelancerKate

I've dealt with this before.

I ended up hiring an attorney to send the initial letter, which cost about $2-4 but saved me a lot more in the long run.

CA
ConsumerAdvocate

I've dealt with this before.

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

NS
newbie_student_CO

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

FB
frustrated_business_owner_NY

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

JC
just_curious_worker_NC

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.

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