New Jersey Copyright Attorneys
What Rights Does a Copyright Owner Have?
Copyrights cover works that are captured in a tangible medium, which generally includes artistic works such as music, movies, books, and even architectural designs. In most cases, the owner of the copyright (generally the creator of the work) reserves the exclusive right to:
- Reproduce or copy the work
- Make derivative works such as sequels
- Display or perform the work publicly
- Distribute, sell, or rent copies of the work
Experienced Copyright Attorneys in Bergen County
For many businesses, proprietary and creative projects can be a crucial component of success. Although you will generally gain copyright protection when a qualifying work is created, this does not allow you to truly protect your property or enforce these rights in court.
If your business has confidential or proprietary information to protect, it’s vital to contact an experienced business law attorney. At M. Ross & Associates, LLC, our attorneys are well-versed in a wide range of business matters, including copyright and trademark protection. Whether you’re proactively trying to protect your property, attempting to license it, or are considering litigation over an infringement, our firm is here to help.
You have a right to protect your property. Call our firm at (201) 897-4942 for skilled counsel.
Why Should I Register a Copyright?
In the United States, copyright protection is automatically granted when an original, qualifying work is created in a tangible medium; for example, a book will be copyrighted as soon as it is written on paper. However, you will not be able to file a lawsuit for infringement if the copyright is not registered.
Failure to register could potentially lead to a situation where someone unlawfully uses your intellectual property, causing damage to your business without the recourse to stop them. If you register your copyright, even if it’s long after the work was created, you gain the ability to file a lawsuit and prevent unauthorized use. Additionally, you can file your registered copyright with the U.S. customs service to prevent the importation of any infringing goods.
