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Trademark Dispute — employer claiming my side project IP

Started by just_curious_business_owner_WA · Aug 4, 2025 · 788 views · 9 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
JC
just_curious_business_owner_WA OP

Quick background on my situation — any input appreciated.

employer claiming my side project IP. I've been dealing with this for about 9 months now and the situation isn't improving.

This involves content I created over the past 28 months. I do have documentation proving my ownership and timeline.

What's the typical outcome in situations like this?

JC
just_curious_trader_2026

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

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 Lanham Act. Your state may provide additional protections.

One important thing — there are strict deadlines for filing these claims. Don't wait too long.

AH
anon_homeowner_FL

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.

DD
desperate_driver_MA

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

HC
HRManager_Chicago

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

What worked for me was filing with the appropriate government agency. It took 4-8 months but was worth it.

EA
EstatePlanner_AZ

Been there. Here's what I learned.

In my case, it took about 4-8 months to resolve. The key was filing with the appropriate government agency.

SA
seeking_advice_seller_CO

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

CA
CorpCounsel_Amy

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.

IG
InsuranceGuy_FL

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

In my case, it took about 4-8 months to resolve. The key was filing with the appropriate government agency.

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