What to do about rights to a logo and an unregistered organization?

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What to do about rights to a logo and an unregistered organization?

A logo and non-profit “organization” was created in Afghanistan but never registered anywhere. I have since started a website for the people that designed the logo and “unofficial” organization they started. I now want to copyright the logo and register the business as a non-profit in my name in the USA. Could the people who came up with the idea take any legal action against me if I do this? Mind you, there was never a plan to make this “legal” by the founders.

Asked on April 29, 2011 under Business Law, Illinois

Answers:

MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

You should absolutely at this point consult with an experienced international copyright and trademark attorney because the laws federally, internationally, along with any U.N. agreements of member countries and of course any state laws may impede on your plans. Itsounds like the idea is something others came up with but you created the actual image. If this is the case and this unofficial organization is not internationally known or known by Afhgani's in your state, then you may have a winning position wherein you enjoy the benefit of copyright but ensure you also (if your lawyer agrees and advises it) begin copyrighting the same throughout the world to protect your interests.


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