The Situation
A creator discovers their work — a design, photograph, text, software or piece of music — being used commercially without a licence. Or a business receives a demand alleging it has infringed someone else's rights.
Both sides need to establish who actually owns the rights, what use was permitted, and what a fair resolution looks like before positions harden into litigation.
Common Problems
- Ownership or authorship of the work is unclear or disputed.
- There is no written licence, or its scope is ambiguous.
- Infringing use continues while the parties argue.
- Damages are hard to quantify without proper evidence.
- The work and the infringement span several countries.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
Contact a lawyer before sending or responding to a cease-and-desist letter. What you say early — and what evidence you preserve — shapes both leverage and any later claim for damages.
Act quickly if infringing use is ongoing, as prompt legal steps can stop further harm and strengthen your position.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
An IP specialist confirms ownership, assesses the strength of the claim, and enforces your rights — through a cease-and-desist, negotiated licence, or court action for an injunction and damages. On the defence side, they limit exposure and negotiate a fair settlement.
LawBridge matches you with an intellectual-property lawyer experienced in the relevant markets and languages.
Frequently asked questions
Copyright generally arises automatically on creation. Dated drafts, files, contracts and publication records help establish authorship and ownership.
It is a formal demand to stop infringing use. It often resolves matters without court, but the wording carries legal consequences, so it should be prepared with a lawyer.
Yes. You may be entitled to damages or the infringer's profits, and sometimes a licence fee. The amount depends on the use and the evidence available.
One confidential request matches you with an IP specialist who can enforce or defend the rights across the countries involved.
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