Copyright Infringement

KEY INFORMATION: 

Project name: Director/Editor v. Producer/Production Company and Director/Editor v. Publishing Company Copyright Infringement Matter

Client: Confidential -- Director/Editor

Services Provided: Intellectual Property & Infringement Services, Finance & Economic Damages, Dispute Resolution, Commercial Dispute

SOCOTEC was engaged by legal counsel representing a director/editor involved in the creation of a viral self-help movie, which later evolved into a best-selling self-help book. The director/editor initiated separate copyright infringement lawsuits against both the movie producer and the book publisher. SOCOTEC conducted a comprehensive forensic investigation to provide an "accounting of profits" for both the film and the book, analyzing the financial transactions of various international entities receiving royalties and income associated with the works.

Our team also assessed deductible expenses to ensure an accurate calculation of damages, presenting analyses under three potential legal remedies: equitable accounting for joint authorship, unjust enrichment, and copyright infringement. Additionally, SOCOTEC provided trial support and expert testimony on damages for the initial lawsuit against the producer. The case against the publishing company was successfully settled prior to trial, achieving a favorable resolution for our client.