Customer didn't pay,what next!!!!!!

Ok, so I try to be a nice guy this 1 time. I finished a logo and a character image for a client on time, while letting him pay later on during the week.

Now, I haven't heard from him or anything. I emailed him back,nada.

SOOOO...I was wondering, they are going to be using the logo and character and a ton of cd's and other stuff they are selling. Now, when they get money from that, can I sue them for using MY creations? I never sent them anything that said they owned the logo/character. So by law are the images still in my copyrights?

Always, always always, get at least half of the money up front.

I hear ya, deker - but it's not always that easy.

I'm working for a client the same way - we design the site, they pay quarterly - or sometimes more often. Frustrating, but I trust the guy. (Bad habit = trusting people)

Either way, though - you have to make an agreement in writing - even print out your emails, that's what I do.

I'd threaten them with legal speak, that will usually get them off their ass and cut you a check.

lowizzy, if you have any record of your agreement, SUE THEM.

I have a 10 page or so contract I typed. If anyone wants it let me know.

As for getting paid, if you don't have a contract you are screwed...

You own the copyright as long as you can produce the original layered image.

you should sue. Do you still have the original files -psd, ai - whatever?
Yeah - and like deker said - always get some money upfront...

I sued one of my clients - he paid a retainer - I made the site - then he refused to pay the rest - I sued him - still waiting to hear what the court says- it's fairly recent.

Yes, always get a contract, especially if you aren't taking money up front. There are sample contracts in my "Design Link Orgy" thread in the cool sites forum. Call him or something and tell him you will sue before you actually do. Just knowing that you are willing to sue will probably get him to pay.

Ok,well I do got all the emails saying what was going on. And yes, I do have ALL the original files and everything. It's bad enough being a poor graphic designer, its worse when you don't even get paid for it :(

NEVER release the final product until you're paid in full, unless it's a client you have an established business relationship with.

Oral agreements can be fully and legally binding.

Save EVERYTHING. Email, notes made while talking on the phone, phone bills, letters, contracts, photocopies of hand-drawn comps, layered files EVERYTHING!

But even if I don't have a contract,but emails saying he will pay me and send me money,would that be considered a legal contract?