I have a website that publishes articles to a very niche market. Can I have writers write articles as volunteers (no pay)?

IC does not require compensation, it requires what it's name implies, "independence" and a "contract". What YOU want is that contract with the IC...

Deja vu all over again, and again and again. I think the smart move is to get a lawyer and move to quash, if this involves porn piracy, as the...

What are the potential trademark and general legal issues when selling repurposed/recycled items that have been altered?

Many questions you have, my friend! In general, in Illinois as elsewhere, you can reuse/recycle items as base stock for a craft item, provided...

I have a secret family recipe for cookies that i would like to market I think would sell very well at a Starbucks or like stores

This is called a "Trade Secret" and is best protected by a secrecy agreement, also called a confidentiality agreement or non-disclosure agreement,...

Use of black and white drawings of cartoon characters in iPhone app

Yes. Black & white versions of color cartoon characters is how the trademarks are usually registered, so you won't avoid them that way either. Get...

Can we use a name for our app very similar to another popular app, although not the exact same?

Yes you are "swimming in deep water"and it is pretty clear you are not expert swimmers. Deep water sharks await you if you do this. Instagram is a...

You need a good business attorney with good IP knowledge. Such an attorney will likely demand the company prove its pending patent application...

What are the basics of a non-compete agreement in Texas?

It depends on the nature of your business. The 50 miles, 3 years mentioned by my colleague is a good guideline for a local retail business. If it...

I want to sue but i do not know how to go about it and what channels to go through

When you dont know how to go about a legal matter that is the time to see a lawyer.

IL-Missing signatures on paperwork. Was our mobile home purchase legit?

That is unlikely to work. They likely signed their copies or will sign as soon as you point out the missing signatures. And, they will testify they...