[orangepeel]

I think, but may be wrong, but software isn't allowed to lock you out of any data files created with it. Trial or not. The theory is that any data created with any software belongs to the creator, not the author of the application.

when I say "isn't allowed" i don't mean the rozzers will come bash down the door of a company creating software that does this, just that said company may open themselves up to a lawsuit.

As I say, this may be wrong - it was something I heard at uni like a billion years ago.

Iannewsman, when you say padlock in the icon, do you mean in elements or in windows explorer? Is it possible the file is marked read only?