Software Freedom Law Center (SFLC) – Pro-bono legal services for FOSS
Business Profile
Core Value Proposition
Software Freedom Law Center provides pro-bono legal services and representation to Free, Libre, and Open Source Software developers to protect and advance FOSS.
Target Customer
Open-source developers and projects; FOSS organizations and communities seeking legal support
Key Differentiator
Specializes in pro-bono legal services for FOSS with direct involvement in major OSS ecosystems and governance (Code of Conduct practice, amicus work, and high-profile cases).
Implementation Timeline
Not specified in the content; described as ongoing services including case work and policy development.
Pain Points
- 1Legal needs of FOSS developers and projects (IP/copyright/licensing concerns).
- 2Policy, governance, and code of conduct development for FOSS communities.
- 3Navigating and influencing legal standards related to APIs, copyright, and open source licenses.
Key Features
- 1Pro-bono legal representation and law-related services for FOSS developers
- 2Amicus briefs in major copyright/IP cases relevant to OSS (e.g., Google v. Oracle)
- 3Code of Conduct policy development and mediation services for FOSS communities
- 4Publications, news, and updates on OSS law and policy
- 5Engagement with major OSS foundations and projects (FSF, CNCF, Linux Foundation, Debian, Ethereum, Apache, OpenSSL)
Target Customer Industries
Decision Makers
- 1Legal Director
- 2General Counsel
Client Results
- 1Advancement and protection of FOSS through legal advocacy and representation
- 2High-profile legal activity influencing API copyright and fair use jurisprudence
- 3Governance support for FOSS communities via Code of Conduct practices
Competitive Advantages
- 1Pro-bono services focused on FOSS community needs
- 2Deep integration with major OSS ecosystems and organizations
- 3Ability to influence policy and law through amicus briefs and governance work
Key Benefits
Case Studies & Success Stories
Amicus Brief in Google v. Oracle (Google LLC v. Oracle America, Inc.)
SFLC filed a brief before the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that APIs may not be copyrightable in the way suggested by the Federal Circuit, advocated fair use, and stressed adherence to precedent in copyright questions.
Additional Product Information
Product Description
Legal representation and other law-related services to protect and advance Free, Libre, and Open Source Software.
Target Market
Open source developers, FOSS projects, and related organizations seeking legal support and policy guidance
Unique Value Proposition
Dedicated pro-bono legal support tailored to the needs of the FOSS ecosystem, backed by active involvement in major OSS communities and governance.
Technical Requirements
N/A
Pricing Model
Pro-bono legal services; donations welcomed to support operations
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