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Copyright Protection: Keeping Your Content Safe

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What does Copyright Protect?

Copyright law provides protection for original works of authorship. Above all, it gives the owner exclusive rights in the work created including to:

  • reproduce copies,
  • distribute copies,
  • create derivative works, and
  • authorize others to do so. 

When does Copyright Protection Start?

Unlike many other intellectual property laws, copyright protection starts upon creation. In other words, it begins when a work is fixed in a tangible meeting, copyright protection applies. 

How do I Ensure Copyright Protection of My Content?

Copyright Notice

The simplest first step is a “Copyright Notice”.   Specifically, a Copyright Notice makes the public aware that you claim ownership.  Notice also identifies the copyright owner for parties seeking permission to use the work.

Copyright Notice specifically consists of a single continuous statement that includes:

  • copyright symbol ©; the word “copyright”; or the abbreviation “copr.”
  • year of first publication of the work; and
  • name of the copyright owner.

Copyright Registration

For your key works, therefore, including unique software, databases, graphic user interfaces, manuals, writings, and recordings, register a copyright.

Additional Protections

Additionally, copyright registration provides these protections:

  • presumption of ownership and validity,
  • constructive notice to competitors,
  • legal foundation to pursue copycats,
  • ability to sue for actual damages and for a court order to stop the use
  • copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years

How to Register a Copyright?

To register with the United States Copyright Office, in particular submit an application to the Registrar of Copyrights along with a fee and a “deposit” of the work.  Truly, copyright registration provides a low cost, high value content protection.

Can I Get a Global Copyright?

Copyright registration covers specific territories.  In other words, registering a United States Copyright does not provide you an “international copyright registration.”  However, many countries participate in international conventions. International conventions and treaties provide protection in other countries.  In fact, a United States copyright automatically protects against infringement in a foreign jurisdiction that is a member to a convention. Specifically, no registration in the foreign jurisdiction required. Therefore, you can bring lawsuits against infringement not only in the United States but also many other countries.

Copyright protection can be a valuable mechanism to minimize your legal risk. 

Therefor, it’s a good idea to evaluate your current practices and then take that first step to securing your success.

Do you need help with your Copyright strategy? Contact us here.

Want to take the first step to legally securing your success?  Get your Free Ebook today!

About Sagacity Legal:
Sagacity Legal is a Florida-based firm that works with service-based small business owners, who want to minimize their legal risk so they can focus on achieving their full potential.

This article and all content herein is solely intended for general information purposes and should not be construed as legal advice in any manner. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing, or communication via email or other means does not establish an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only formed when a written engagement agreement is executed. We disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this website to the fullest extent permitted by law. Do not act or refrain from acting upon this information without seeking professional legal counsel.

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  1. Randi Karpinia says:

    Thank you for your kind thoughts! My goal is for my blog to help small businesses legally secure their success through easy and enjoyable to read posts. I’m glad you’re enjoying it!

  2. Randi Karpinia says:

    Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m hopeful that my writing is helpful and enjoyable to read as you mention. Please let me know if there’s any topic particularly of interest that you would like me to write about.

  3. Randi Karpinia says:

    I just added a feature to my blog that you can sign up to receive each newly published post by email.

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