Entertainment Law refers to services, such as copyrights and contracts, that deal specifically with entertainment, like movies, books and films. Working in the entertainment industry, you will want to protect your work from being exploited or plagiarized. In Georgia, the intellectual property rights of artists are protected by several laws that includes copyright and trademark provisions.
What is A Copyright?
A party holding a copyright can exclusively produce a certain form of entertainment, requiring any others who want to use it to get consent first. Under Georgia law, the holder of a copyright has the right to negotiate licenses for the production of the copyrighted material that others might want to use. A copyright does not last forever, and all procedures surrounding copyrights are governed 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 symbol or other notable visual characteristic that people associate with a brand is a trademark. Visual cues are key in the entertainment industry to establish product recognition. Trademarks do not expire. They are obtained through registration with the U.S. patent and trademark office. Consumers recognize brands better when they have associated trademarks.
How Can a Georgia Attorney Help?
An attorney in Savannah 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, Attorneys may give direction on how to best proceed when seeking a copyright or trademark recognition in Georgia.