Business ContractsCivil LitigationContract InterpretationLicensing AgreementsMisinterpretation of Licensing Agreements in Upper Marlboro, MD

When Rights and Restrictions Aren’t Clear

Misinterpretation of Licensing Agreements in Upper Marlboro, MD

By Matthew J. Dyer, Esq., Business Civil Litigation Attorney, The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer
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Licensing agreements should spell things out—but too often, they don’t.

I’ve helped clients in Upper Marlboro who thought they had the right to use a brand, design, software, or content one way, only to find out the other party disagreed.

When both sides read the same agreement differently, you’ve got a legal problem.

If you’re in a licensing dispute—or trying to prevent one—it all comes down to how the contract was written and how it’s being interpreted.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Licensing Agreement?

A licensing agreement is a contract that gives one party the right to use something owned by another, such as a logo, design, software, product, or content.

The person or business granting those rights is the licensor.

The person receiving them is the licensee.

These contracts usually define:

  • What can be used
  • How it can be used
  • Where and for how long
  • Who owns the work during and after the agreement

The problem? If those terms aren’t clear—or get interpreted in different ways—it can lead to serious legal trouble.

Common Disputes I See in Upper Marlboro

I’ve helped clients in situations where:

  • A business used licensed materials in ways not clearly allowed
  • Royalties were disputed due to unclear reporting rules
  • One side thought the license was exclusive when it wasn’t
  • Limitations on use were too vague, causing overreach or underperformance

In many of these cases, it wasn’t bad intent—it was bad wording.

What I Do to Help

At The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, I help both licensors and licensees avoid and resolve misinterpretations. Here’s how:

  • Review licensing agreements before and after signing
  • Clarify confusing language so there’s no room for doubt
  • Negotiate changes that protect your interests
  • Represent you in disputes if a disagreement turns legal

You worked hard to create or license your work. Let’s make sure the agreement reflects that.

Don’t Let a Gray Area Cost You

Licensing agreements are only as strong as the words inside them.

If you’re dealing with unclear terms or have already been caught in a dispute, I can help you understand it and fight for your side.

I’m Matthew J. Dyer, Esq., and I help clients in Upper Marlboro make sense of licensing agreements, enforce their rights, and resolve conflicts when contracts get messy.

📞 Call 301-627-5844 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.

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The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.

The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.

The information provided on this website, in our blog posts, social media content, videos, or other marketing materials by The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship. While we strive to provide accurate and current information, legal matters are often complex and fact-specific. You should not act or rely on any information contained herein without seeking professional legal counsel directly from a licensed attorney. Contacting our firm does not create an attorney-client relationship until a formal agreement is signed. For legal advice specific to your situation, please get in touch withour office directly.