Deel Intensifies Legal Dispute with Rippling Over Alleged Espionage

New updates have been reported about Deel (PC:DEELX)

Deel has escalated its legal confrontation with HR tech competitor Rippling by submitting a series of letters to an Irish court, demanding that Rippling provide unredacted versions of key documents. Central to Deel’s request is the affidavit of former Rippling employee Keith O’Brien, who admitted in court to acting as a spy for Deel. This admission is part of a broader legal saga where Rippling has accused Deel of trade secret misappropriation and unfair competition, primarily hinging on these espionage allegations.

In response, Deel has countersued, seeking to dismiss Rippling’s claims on jurisdictional grounds while also accusing Rippling of similar espionage activities. Deel’s recent court filings highlight testimony from Vanessa Wu, Rippling’s former general counsel, who revealed that Rippling had terminated O’Brien but later compensated him with a termination fee and agreed to cover his legal expenses. Deel argues that these actions are unusual and seeks full disclosure of the agreements between Rippling and O’Brien. The outcome of these legal maneuvers remains uncertain, but the case underscores the intense rivalry and high stakes involved in the HR tech sector. Both companies continue to assert their innocence, and the court’s decisions could have significant implications for their operations and reputations.