Entertainment Law refers to services, such as copyrights and contracts, that deal particularly with entertainment, like movies, books and films. It is an imminent concern for those who work in the entertainment industries that their work is never plagiarized or exploited. Copyright and trademark laws safeguard artists in Iowa, and are among a body of laws that defines the intellectual property rights of those working in the entertainment field.

What is A Copyright?

With a copyright, a party has the right to exclusively produce a given form of entertainment. Others who want to use it must first get the consent of the copyright holder. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in Iowa, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and acquire 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 particular 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 Iowa Attorney Help?

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