: Client refuses to pay and yet is using my work I've been designing (my personal projects) for the past 6 years and recently I started designing logos for clients. Now, there is this client

@RJPawlick971

If you designed the logo, it's yours. Continue to use it in your portfolio, if you want, as the dude has not paid for exclusive (or any) use.Consider even crediting the site with a relevant notation about the condition such as"Created Date, Used here (link) without permission." Use social media to help emphasize your position if you have no agreement in writing as a last resort to pressure.

You might not be paid until you ask; so, ask in writing.
Visit small claims court to find out how for where you live. The city hall officials there are really helpful for types like us.After the minimum required time, inform the dude in writing that you, as the creator, own copyright. You retain ownership of all rights until paid in full and you give license. Offer the alternative of paying you or remove your design from their site.

Make no threats that you cannot legally enforce or cannot afford to have enforced on your behalf.

Be practical. Save what you can from the situation. Take advantage of the experience you just had for the future.

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@Carla748

If your client is using it, they must pay for it. You own the artwork and the copyright (unless you agreed otherwise). But if the client refuses to pay you after you have asked for payment, sent an invoice etc, as I see it you only have two options: 1. Walk away and learn how to protect yourself in future or 2. Make a stand and contact a lawyer, their first step will be to write a letter to your client. Always have agreements upfront in writing (email) first with new clients, as they won't always realise just how much time goes into graphic design.

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