it does look like an open/shut case. and without knowing full details this would also be my first reaction.
But IMO it's still worth talking to (2 or 3) lawyers which specialize on the subject[1]. It gets expensive only if you decide to fight - and you don't need to make that decision just yet.
Just asking a legal expert to review your case isn't going to be outrageously expensive, but gives you a better understanding for deciding if this is worth any risks. And it would give you also a clear picture about how to protect yourself for any future ideas.
[1] I have a rule which served me well. Interview (review) any legal adviser, accountant or consultant that you might want a professional relationship with. After talking to several people you know exactly the questions to ask them to decide if they are a good match for you. Also ask them for client references and a sample invoice they have issued for similar cases. Do these discussions always in person (over a coffee) never online. The first consultation has always been free for me (idk how it is in the US though).
Agreed/good post. It never hurts to talk to a lawyer. And a good lawyer is one who will tell you the truth, which is sometimes you dont have a left to stand on.
Another thing good lawyers generally tell their clients is not to litigate and try to work things out. This seems like a great example where there seems to be goodwill on both sides and appeals to fairness and decency and reasonableness might be far more effective than belligerence. I recommend all of the above even if you do have the law on your side -- life is short and memories are long.
But IMO it's still worth talking to (2 or 3) lawyers which specialize on the subject[1]. It gets expensive only if you decide to fight - and you don't need to make that decision just yet.
Just asking a legal expert to review your case isn't going to be outrageously expensive, but gives you a better understanding for deciding if this is worth any risks. And it would give you also a clear picture about how to protect yourself for any future ideas.
[1] I have a rule which served me well. Interview (review) any legal adviser, accountant or consultant that you might want a professional relationship with. After talking to several people you know exactly the questions to ask them to decide if they are a good match for you. Also ask them for client references and a sample invoice they have issued for similar cases. Do these discussions always in person (over a coffee) never online. The first consultation has always been free for me (idk how it is in the US though).