Domain name dispute - who owns it?

[Dick Dastardly]

A client of mine has asked me about a little situation he's in but it's not my area...

He had the idea for quite a good fitness website ages ago and last year his business partner registered the domain, with a view to them starting work on it this year. They then fell out and the business partner has disappeared with the domain registered in his personal name and is currently dodging all requests to sign it over to my client.

I believe that from a legal point of view, as the ex-partner registered it, it's his property. Is this correct? Has anyone been involved in a similar situation? If company money was used to pay for it then would it belong to the business instead of the individual?

My client is just after a bit of advice on his position and the options available before making any demands.

[grumbas]

I think legally you're correct, unless there's anything in writing to tie it back to the business/partnership your client isn't going to get very far.

The Nominet website might have some more info (assuming .co.uk domain).

[An Oasis]

How was it paid for? The partners personal money, its his…joint account, let the legal battle begin.