A copyright is a legal device that provides the creator of an original work of art (literary, artistic, musical, etc.) the exclusive privilege to make copies of the work for sale or publication. According to United State copyright laws, a person will automatically receive ownership of a copyright once an original idea has been expressed within one of the mediums mentioned above. To earn full protection under United State Intellectual Property Law, it is essential to register any copyrighted work with the U.S. Copyright office. The Smith Firm assists our clients by advising copyright holders through this registration process, facilitates any transfers of ownerships that may be needed, and will defend our clients from any infringing activity by other parties. Your work is your property, protect it.
► What are Copyrights?
A copyright protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, and architecture.
► How long does a copyright last?
The duration of copyright protection depends on several factors. For works created by an individual, protection lasts for the life of the author, plus 70 years. For works created anonymously, pseudonymously, and for hire, protection lasts 95 years from the date of publication or 120 years from the date of creation, whichever is shorter.
► How much does a copyright cost?
The cost to register a copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office is $35. However, on May 1, 2014, the fee at the copyright office was increased to $ 55 for most applications. The fee is still $35 if your application has one author, the author is also the owner, you are just registering a single work (not a collection of photos), and it was not a work made for hire. For more information on copyright fees, visit the U.S. Copyright Office website.
