Took an equity position as technical co-founder plus cash incentive and they don’t want to pay now. Contract is a bit of mess on top of it.
I’m owed multiple 6 figures for promised sweat equity, but the company isn’t generating what anyone thought it would. There was never a contingency based on success of the company or revenue generated.
My choices are basically sue, or try to dissolve company and negotiate to keep all rights to all digital assets, trademarks, domain, etc.
I’ve spoken to many lawyers and all have different opinions. I initially thought, hell yes it’s worth it to sue for $250k owed to me. But, it’s really not looking to be a good option after all.
The problem is I have little interest in the industry even if I did retain all IP to myself.
Kind of a conundrum.
Would love to hear some perspectives from others who have faced similar circumstances.
Your going to sue your co-founders as individuals? If so, what are the claims? — sounds more like a suit you would bring against the company, but if the company doesn’t have any money, you won’t get anything (except for maybe the ip assets as part of a settlement)
Speaking from experience, avoid litigation at all costs. It’s just not worth it. Your owed $250k? Well you’ll never get that in a settlement — cut it in half, then lawyers fees you be left with a fraction of what you thought you would get. Plus the mental toll of being involved in litigation