Deel Demands Rippling Share Spy Payment Agreements

Deel Escalates Legal Dispute with Rippling

Deel has intensified its legal confrontation with competing HR technology company, Rippling. The company recently submitted a series of requests to the Irish court system, demanding that Rippling disclose further information.

Information Requests Focus on Witness Testimony

Specifically, Deel is seeking complete, unredacted copies of witness affidavits. This includes the affidavit provided by former Rippling staff member, Keith O’Brien. The case has unfolded with numerous unexpected turns, resembling a dramatic narrative.

O’Brien previously admitted, within a court affidavit released by Rippling, to acting as an informant for Deel.

Rippling's Initial Lawsuit

Rippling initiated legal action against Deel in March, alleging misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, and other offenses. These claims are largely centered around the accusations of corporate espionage.

Deel's Countersuit and Allegations

Deel subsequently filed a countersuit, seeking dismissal of Rippling’s claims based on jurisdictional issues. Simultaneously, Deel has presented its own accusations against Rippling.

Deel contends that Rippling also engaged in attempts to gather intelligence on Deel’s operations.

Focus on Vanessa Wu's Affidavit

The letters released by Deel highlight testimony from Vanessa Wu, Rippling’s former general counsel. Wu’s affidavit details her recollections of events related to the alleged spying activities and her interpretation of communications between legal counsel for both companies.

Agreements with Keith O’Brien

Deel emphasizes Wu’s testimony regarding Rippling’s agreements with O’Brien following his termination. Wu testified that Rippling paid O’Brien a severance package in exchange for a waiver of legal claims.

Furthermore, Wu’s affidavit indicates that Rippling entered into a subsequent agreement to cover O’Brien’s legal expenses and costs associated with his cooperation in the proceedings.

Deel Seeks Disclosure of Agreements

Should Rippling fail to comply with these requests, Deel asks the court to compel the release of the complete, unredacted versions of both agreements. Deel aims to demonstrate the unusual nature of a former employee, dismissed for cause, being financially supported by the company as a witness.

Mutual Accusations

Both Deel and Rippling maintain their innocence and accuse the other party of wrongdoing.

Pending Court Ruling

The outcome of this legal battle hinges on the court’s decisions. Any further disclosure of O’Brien’s testimony and the termination agreements will be closely monitored.

Note: Deel initially sent letters requesting information, with plans to file a formal motion shortly thereafter, as confirmed by a company spokesperson to TechCrunch.