can my client do this?

[muppet123]

Hi
I have put together a small but complex database for a client (they paid fine even though there was no contract; basically it was for a friend who has since moved on from this company).
I have been told that they intend to sell this software on to another company, can they do this? There must be some rights for me as the developer even though I understand they have ownership of the software & code.

regards
Muppet

 

[lupins46]

If they have ownership then I would say you have no rights.
But I'm not a lawyer so what do I know!

Surely the issue is whether they DO have ownership and I guess that will depend on the nature of your working arrangement and which country you are in.
(In the UK, the developer owns the code unless otherwise stated - provided the developer is a 'supplier' not a 'contractor' - I'm simplifying but you get the idea I hope)

 

[muppet123]

Thanks Lupin. I am in the UK and was the supplier so think that this stands me in reasonable grounds. Though I think it does need a more specific answer in terms of actual legalities so will chase this up.

Thanks again
Muppet

 

[lupins46]

There is thread here that might be of interest:

http://groups.google.com/group/uk.legal/browse_frm/thread/b7b84dde320a8d63/07c057981583cc76

 

[alvechurchdata]

If you didn't spell out the copyright situation in the original contract then the situation is very messy.

Looking on the bright side, if the client can sell several copies of the application then you must be in a very good position to pick up the inevitable customisation work that will be required. I suspect you'll make more money that way than if you were to call in the lawyers.

At least that's how it worked for me. I'd written a membership system for one organisation who wanted to let another organisation use it. I was happy for them to do it, I helped them demonstrate it to the other people and I quoted for the bespoke development work that was going to be needed. Everyone came out of it happy.

Geoff Franklin

http://www.alvechurchdata.co.uk

 

[muppet123]

Cheers Geoff for that, I hope my situation turns out as well as yours!

Thanks again
Muppet