Entertainment law is the package of services, containing contracts and copyrights, that is intended for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Protecting work from being plagiarized or otherwise exploited is a massive concern for those working in the entertainment industries. Artists have certain intellectual property rights in West Virginia, which are safeguarded in part by copyright and trademark laws.

What is A Copyright?

A party holding a copyright can exclusively produce a given form of entertainment, requiring any others who want to use it to get consent first. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in West Virginia, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and acquire a license or contract from you first. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are controlled by entertainment law. Aside from protecting your property rights, getting a copyright will allow you to sell licenses to others.

What is a Trademark?

A particular commercial brand may have a symbol or other notable visual characteristic to serve as a trademark. In the entertainment industry, they help to create product recognition. A trademark must be registered with the U.S. patent and trademark office, and it does not expire. With a trademark, a company can begin to establish brand identity.

How Can a West Virginia Attorney Help?

Deciding whether you need a trademark or copyright is often a decision best made with the advice of an attorney in Weirton that has experienced in entertainment law. The filing process in West Virginia can also go more smoothly with an attorney to guide you.