LANDERY LAW OFFICE
Copyrights
A Copyright is a form of legal protection provided under the laws of the United States to the authors of "original works of authorship", including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and other types of intellectual works. Copyright grants its owner the exclusive rights to its use and distribution for a limited time.
What are the benefits Of Copyright protection?
Five Exclusive Rights of a Copyright Holder
1. Perform the work publicly
This means the author has the exclusive right to profit from performances of the work in nightclubs, on TV or radio, in super markets, and various other public places.
2. Reproduce the Work
Only the copyright holder can record, publish, or copy the work unless express permission is granted.
3. Distribute copies of the work
This means selling the work to the public.
4. Make Derivative Works
Derivative works are creations based on previous works. Movies based on novels, Spin-off TV series, and even song parodies are considered derivatives works.
5. Display the Work Publicly
Only the copyright owner has the right to put the work on public display.
Who owns the Copyright?
Copyright is created automatically when the work is created and first fixed to a tangible medium. For example, when a song is written down or recorded to a compact disc.
The copyright in the work immediately becomes the sole property of the author(s) of the work. Typically, authors of a joint work are considered "co-authors" unless another agreement is in place (such as a work for hire).
Why Register Your Copyright?
While federal registration is not required to own copyright, it is highly recommended. Particularly when dealing with litigation, copyright registration is absolutely necessary. Before filing a copyright infringement suit, for example, the work must be registered.
This registration serves as "prima facie" (on it's face) evidence of copyright ownership. This evidence is basically irrefutable. Additionally, registrants can recover statutory damages and attorney's fees in infringement cases. Click Here to read more about recent legal changes requiring Copyright Registration Here.
Copyright Services
1
Copyright Registration
Preparation of all necessary paperwork and filings with the US Copyright Office. Updates during the entire process to help ensure registration.
