Entertainment Law refers to services, such as copyrights and contracts, that deal particularly with entertainment, like movies, books and films. Plagiarism and other forms of exploitation often threaten the products of those who work in the entertainment industries. To safeguard the intellectual property rights of artists, copyright and trademark laws are available to those working in California.

What is A Copyright?

A copyright is the legal right to exclusively produce a given medium, such as art, movies and writing. Others are prevented from using or reproducing your copyrighted materials without your consent. A license is when a copyright holder gives its permission for another to use the protected material. Negotiating license agreements in California is the exclusive privilege of the copyright holder. Whether you can get a copyright, the procedure for getting one, and how long it lasts once issued are questions determined by entertainment law. With a copyright, you can protect your property rights for the future, or you can simply start licensing it to others.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is any noticeable characteristic that is associated with something, such as the symbol for a commercial brand. Trademarks can be key to creating product recognition in the entertainment industry. Trademarks do not expire. They are acquired through registration with the U.S. patent and trademark office. Consumers recognize brands better when they have associated trademarks.

How Can a California Attorney Help?

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