Lack of Original Contracts and Proper IP Documentation Risks Loss of Rights

Summary

Freelance artists and writers often fail to secure original signed contracts with clients or publishers, leading to devastating legal disputes over intellectual property ownership. As seen in the Ken Penders vs. Archie Comics case, the inability to produce an original contract (only a photocopy) can result in losing rights to hundreds of characters and years of work. Many artists lack legal knowledge and resources to properly document agreements, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and costly litigation.