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Model alleges breach of contract to the tune of $500,000

On Behalf of | May 26, 2014 | Contract Disputes |

For many people, contracts are more than just agreements; they are a way of doing business. Many individuals and companies in Cleveland rely on contracts in order to make money. If one party backs out of their obligations, they may be held responsible for breach of contract. As one recent incident illustrates, the action can be costly.

A Columbus photographer is on the receiving end of a lawsuit that alleges fraudulent breach of contract. In the suit, a professional model from Northeast Ohio alleges that the photographer sold her pictures to entities that promote adult-oriented content and services, such as stripping services, sexual products and prostitution.

In January last year, the photographer contacted the model with an offer of free pictures in exchange for being able to use the photos in his portfolio. The two signed a document called a Universal Adult Model Release for All Agencies. Not included in writing was the model’s stipulation that the photographer could not use her pictures in a manner that could be deemed obscene.

The woman filed the suit once family and friends alerted her to the images that had gone viral. She is seeking damages in excess of $500,000, citing humiliation and emotional distress as well as damage to her modeling career. Anyone who feels that a contract has been broken should consult with an attorney. A lawyer can help draft documents as well as pursue legal and financial repercussions in the event that a party does not uphold their end of the agreement.

Source: Cleveland.com, “NE Ohio model sues Columbus photographer accuses him of sending her images ‘viral’,” James F. McCarty, May 20, 2014 

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