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 includes the privilege to exclusively produce a given form of entertainment, and the copyright holder must give consent for others to be able to use it. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in California, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and get a license or contract from you first. A copyright does not last forever, and all procedures surrounding copyrights are controlled by state entertainment laws. You will want to familiarize yourself with the specifics, whether you want to simply protect your property rights or you are interested in selling licenses for your work.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a symbol or other notable visual characteristic that is associated with a specific commercial brand. In the entertainment industry, they help to establish product recognition. 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?

An attorney in Dos Palos has knowledge of entertainment law in your area, and can give you the information you need to decide whether you need a trademark or copyright. Also, Lawyers may give direction on how to best proceed when seeking a copyright or trademark recognition in California.