Comics
Sandman scribe Gaiman claims that that he is owed unpaid royalties due to his copyright interest in three Spawn characters.
The writer insists that Dark Ages Spawn, Domina and Tiffany - who feature in McFarlane's Image series - are derivatives of his previous creations Medieval Spawn, Angela and Count Nicholas Cogliostro.
Gaiman's lawyer told The AP: "Our view is McFarlane just took some of the characters Neil was a co-creator of and just gave them different names. It's a matter of principle."
James Alex Grimsley - the lawyer representing McFarlane - refuted the reports, claiming that the characters are not based on earlier creations.
The case goes to court later today.
Related Stories
Comics Interviews
'Before Watchmen' interview: Dan DiDioWe catch up with DC Comics' co-publisher to discuss the much-debated prequel.
Comic Movie Reviews
'Avengers' review: What's the verdict?Robert Downey Jr muscles his way to the front in this Marvel Comics movie mash-up.
Avengers vs X-Men
AvX will not start a reboot, says MarvelEditor-in-chief Axel Alonso says that the event won't reboot the Mavel Universe.
Before Watchmen
DC: 'Before Watchmen bigger than New 52'Dan DiDio says that Before Watchmen is bigger than the publisher's relaunch.
