Entertainment Law refers to services, such as copyrights and contracts, that deal specifically with entertainment, like movies, books and films. It is an imminent concern for those who work in the entertainment industries that their work is not plagiarized or exploited. To protect the intellectual property rights of artists, copyright and trademark laws are available to those working in Iowa.

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. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in Iowa, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and receive a license or contract from you first. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are governed 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 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 Iowa Attorney Help?

An attorney in Ankeny 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 Iowa.