Many small businesses decide to register a copyright. This is a form of intellectual property for original works of authorship. A copyright exists the moment one creates work. The creator of original works is its author.
Let’s look at the types of original works of authorship copyrights protect and how to register a copyright.
Which Original Works of Authorship Do Copyrights Protect?
- Literary works. This includes fiction, non-fiction, poetry, articles, and periodicals.
- Performing arts. Music, lyrics, sound recordings, scripts, and stage plays may all file for copyright protection.
- Visual arts. You may register a copyright for artwork, illustrations, jewelry, fabric, and architecture.
- Motion pictures. This includes movies, TV shows, video games, animation, and videos.
- Photographs. You may copyright news photos, wedding photos, family photos, and selfies.
Additional digital content which may receive a copyright include computer programs, databases, websites, and blogs.
What Cannot Receive a Copyright?
Facts, ideas, systems, or methods of operations may not receive copyright protection. Other forms of IP, like business names and logos, are not eligible for a copyright. You may file for trademark protection for these assets.
What is Copyright Registration?
Copyright registration is the process of officially documenting your ownership of a creative work with the appropriate government body. This registration provides legal recognition and protection for your work, ensuring that you have the exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display it.
How Copyright Registration Protects Your Work
Copyright registration protects your work by granting you exclusive rights and legal leverage against unauthorized use or infringement. It establishes a public record of your ownership and can be crucial in legal disputes, helping to secure damages and enforce your rights.
Conduct a Copyright Search
This first step in copyright registration is like registering a trademark. Conduct a search through the U.S. Copyright Office’s public catalog. You may search for copyrights registered from 1978 to the present. Search by using the title, name, keyword, registration number, document number, or command keyword.
Why should you conduct a copyright search? This search ensures you are not accidentally infringing upon any existing copyrights. If you find out that your copyright is unique, you may begin filing an application to register the copyright.
Consult a Copyright Attorney
Do you have questions surrounding copyright laws? For example, you may be curious as to what the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 (DMCA) is and how it protects the rights of online copyright owners. Or you may have questions about the “poor man’s copyright” practice.
The best advice is to consult a copyright attorney. Review these questions, and any other questions you may have, and get the answers prior to starting the registration process.
File a Copyright Application
Registering a copyright is a straightforward process. Complete the application form, pay the filing fee, and include a nonreturnable copy of the work you plan to register. The U.S. Copyright Office notes that copies of work submitted will not be returned to owners. Only one work may be registered per application.
Need some extra help? You may work alongside a third party service like MyCorporation. We can assist you in protecting your original works of authorship with assistance in filing your copyright application and handling all necessary paperwork.
How To Handle Copyright Infringement
Dealing with copyright infringement involves identifying unauthorized use of your work and taking legal action to protect your rights. This can include sending cease and desist letters, filing DMCA takedown notices, or pursuing litigation. Properly registered copyrights provide stronger legal standing in these situations, making it easier to enforce your rights.
Conclusion
Copyright registration is essential for protecting your creative works. It ensures you have the legal backing to defend against unauthorized use and infringement. By understanding the registration process and how to handle infringement, you can safeguard your intellectual property effectively.
Register a copyright today. Reach out to us at mycorporation.com to start the copyright registration process.