Copyright protection is a fundamental concept every artist, author, musician, or creator must understand. Copyright is an aspect of intellectual property law that protects original works of authorship the moment they are fixed in a tangible medium.
While that may sound sophisticated, for the most part, it is relatively simply. For example, the moment you take a photograph, the moment you write, or sculpt, you have common law copyright rights in your work. It’s that simple.
Copyright “rights” are contained in 17 USC 106. Here, federal law states that only a copyright holder has the right to distribute, reproduce, publically perform, publicly display, or prepare derivate works of the copyrighted material.
Formal registration is not required for copyright protection. However, given the relative low cost of registration, combined with the massive benefits registration provides, all creative works should be registered with the United States Copyright Office.
The benefits of copyright registration include:
- Ability to bring an action for infringement in federal court;
- Statutory damages of up to $150,000 for infringement;
- Ability to use the © in connection with work;
- A legal presumption of validity that provides an advantage in litigation.
Registering with the Copyright Office can by done via its website, eCO. There is a $35 filing fee for copyright registration. Revision Legal offers a flat rate registration package. To register your copyright, contact our attorneys today at 855-473-8474.
