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A few decades ago I had a great idea, a really novel, lucrative idea about a device, which I can bet is in your home right now.

At the time I shared my invention with my then boyfriend who asked if it was "alright with me if he looked into getting a patent" for it. I said I was okay with his help with taking my ideas forward, because I trusted that if things ever were really lucrative from this joint venture that he would share this with me.

This product ended up earning a Truly Significant Pile of Money. And, as you can probably guess, I never was compensated a penny.

Later he did mention in a few personal letters that it was my invention which resulted in very good profit from the patent and how grateful he was.

-- Now, I have debts, kids in college and, well, I imagine you might guess how I feel.

Is there any kind of legal merit (Intellectual property laws?) available to me now to pursue fair compensation for his patent made on my device which was, 100%, entirely my invention? Even though the patent was created a few decades ago?

Thanks in advance for your help.

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    I am not a lawyer, but I believe you need to ask one. – Eric Shain Oct 5 '16 at 20:17
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I am a lawyer, and the other poster is correct. You should find an intellectual property attorney and have a conversation.

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  • Okay. I will look around for one. Thank you so much. Your advice is appreciated. – Just Wondering Oct 7 '16 at 3:48
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When you talk to a lawyer, be sure to ask him to explain to you 1. The law of limitation 2 Equitable concept of delay and laches Also examine what non legal remedies you could persue. Regards Ashok

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