How do I Protect my Copyright?

Many people are creators. This includes artists, musicians, inventors, and more. When they create a piece of work, it is important that they receive protection for it so that they get the credit and recognition they deserve. This can be done by obtaining a copyright. Continue reading below to learn more about how this is done and contact an experienced New Jersey intellectual property attorney for assistance.

How do I Obtain a Copyright?

The process of receiving a copyright can be fairly easy in some cases. With the help of an attorney, you can contact the United States Copyright Office and provide a copy of the material you created. This can be kept in the Library of Congress. When it is approved, you can receive your copyright notice within a year of its first publication.

How do I Protect my Copyright?

The date of the copyright’s publication determines its term of protection. Material that is copyrighted on or after January 1, 1978 is protected from the day it is created until 70 years after the creator’s death. Any material that is anonymous or created/contracted under another name is protected for 95 years after its publication or 120 years from the date it was created.

What do I do if Someone Copies my Work?

If another party steals your idea or profits off it, there are steps you can take. When this happens, you can either recover monetary loss plus any profits that were made or you can win statutory damages anywhere between $750 and $30,000. If you can prove the other party’s willful infringement, you may be able to recover up to $15,000. 

Contact our Firm

The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC has over 25 years of experience helping clients through tough times when they need it most. If you need assistance with any intellectual property, traffic violations, or business law matters, our firm is here to help. It is critical that you pick the right attorney who can protect your rights. Contact The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC for a consultation.