You may be able to patent aspects of your app. You almost certainly will not be able to preclude others from building a competing product that is...

Is what im doing illegal?

What you describe sounds like mail and wire fraud (federal crime). It is likely also a crime under state law. Do not do this. See U.S. v....

Most non-disclosure agreements include terms that explicitly exclude information obtained from sources other than the project that the NDA applies...

The existence of a patent for a functionally similar product does not necessarily prevent you from making your own competing product. It does mean...

Violating best practices as a graphic designer?

Here is a best practice for you. Always have a written agreement when having work done on a contract basis. This is especially true when the work...

What can I do about my past employer using my name, image, and credentials on their many sites although I own a new business?

I can think of many viable causes of action for the facts you describe. Contact an attorney in your area, have the attorney send a cease and desist...

You need to take this to an intellectual property attorney and discuss it in private. It is likely that your competitor is overstating his claims,...

Am I required to disclose information of the seller I bought products from in response to a cease and desist letter?

You are not obligated to provide them with any information. That said, the company could file a lawsuit against you, and then you will be obligated...

Can I include a copyright assignment in a contract for intellectual property that does not yet exist?

You'll want to use a work made for hire agreement. The agreement needs to be in writing and specify the work. It has the effect of causing...

Can I patent a creation that uses a lanyard hook as one of the components?

The fact that one component was previously known or patented does not prevent you from getting a patent. That said, your invention still must...