Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Only the owners of a copyright have standing to sue

What about people who receive the compiled software (customers) and would like the source code as well? Don't they have standing?



In the case of copyleft software, I would think so, and onestone tells us this has been established in France. So I've amended my posting (minimally, near the end of the edit window).


> What about people who receive the compiled software (customers) and would like the source code as well? Don't they have standing?

In the US, IIRC (and IANAL and this is not legal advice) license are analyzed under contract principles to the extent applicable, which might extend to standing, and, under contract principles, you could argue that those receiving the software are intended third-party beneficiaries with standing to sue.

So, its possible.




Consider applying for YC's Fall 2026 batch! Applications are open till July 27.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: