Dallas-based The Schmidt Firm PLLC has been accused by a professional photographer of copyright infringement. The law firm allegedly used an image of convicted sexual abuser and former Columbia University obstetrician-gynecologist Robert Hadden, without permission. This dispute was brought to the Texas federal court by the photographer who took the photo in question.
Details surrounding the photo — like where it was originally published and whether it was copyrighted — have not been made available. Nonetheless, this situation emphasizes the importance of adhering to copyright laws, even for legal professionals.
This case brings the emerging issue of digital rights and ownership back into the spotlight. Corporations and law firms need to be especially vigilant of legal considerations when it comes to using copyrighted pictures or materials for promotional, informational, or any other purposes.
For further reading on the case, click here.