>Computer law was changed dastically about two years ago. The best advice is to speak with someone who CURRENTLY practices computer law. The one thing that no one has said here, including me, is one thing my atty told me. Forget copyrights, get a patent.

Craig,

Exactly! Always get advise from a competent counsel BEFORE entering into any agreement for services. However, I do not completely agree that computer law changed a few years back. What did happen is that Congress extended patent protection to computer programs where is was not necessarily available in the past. Patents provide slightly more encompassing protection in that they protect functionality and obviate the situation where a competitor gets around your copyright by slightly changing the source code. On the other hand, the protection is for a much shorter period -- usually not a problem in computer application where the lifespan of a program is seldom three years.

Patents are harder and more expensive to get, and often copyrights which are virtually do-it-yourself processes, are more than adequate.

But, as always, follow your lawyer's advice. He is most acquainted with the facts in your particular situation and can give the best counsel.

regards,