What to do about a copyright infringement?

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What to do about a copyright infringement?

I own a small business and recently had a local student, at the behest of their instructor, build a website for my company. The website was acceptable, so I paid her $1,000 for her services (all of the work, and communications took place within the school). The school is a technology cente, and the student was an adult at the time. The only contract was an oral agreement between the parties. My company is now being threatened with legal action if I do not pay $1,400 in damages for copyright violations for a photograph on the website. While I know we are responsible for our website, and the material that goes on it, do we not at least share responsibility with our web designer? Who should pay?

Asked on August 5, 2013 under Business Law, Oklahoma

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 10 years ago | Contributor

I can not tell if the student did this project under the guidance of the school and under their guidance as well. But regardless I would take that approach tot he matter and go to the school with the issue to be resolved.  Let them know in no uncertain terms that you do not intend to pay the money or fight this suit with out their help and monetary contribution.  See where that goes.  Good luck.


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