Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Tennessee

Regarding US copyright law.

We have developed specifications and instructions for an online game that we want to submit to software developers to solicit quotations to build and manage the game for us. Other than claiming copyright on the document, how can we prevent someone from potentially stealing our idea? Thanks.


Asked on 12/14/10, 8:39 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Kevin B. Murphy Franchise Foundations, APC

As a Franchise Attorney I can tell you copyright doesn't protect an idea, just the expression of an idea. To protect your idea you need to have everyone sign a properly worded Nondisclosure Agreement. This is usually referred to as a NDA. Consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation

Read more
Answered on 12/19/10, 10:57 am
Mark Torche Patwrite Law

While I totally agree that you should use an NDA, it can be difficult to get a large company to agree to sign one. You might be able to protect your game with a patent. It depends on the details. Software patents are more difficult to prosecute and you have to be prepared for the possibility of paying for the application and yet never having a granted patent. You can talk with a patent attorney or agent to see if patent protection is available for your game. You should be able to get an initial consultation free but if it looks like you have a patentable game, you will likely need a search as the next step.

I would be happy to discuss it with you further. Good luck.

Read more
Answered on 12/20/10, 1:32 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Intellectual Property questions and answers in Tennessee