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. Artists have certain intellectual property rights in Illinois, which are safeguarded in part by copyright and trademark laws.

What is A Copyright?

A party holding a copyright can exclusively produce a given form of entertainment, requiring any others who want to use it to get consent first. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in Illinois, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and get a license or contract from you first. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are controlled 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 particular commercial brand may have a symbol or other notable visual characteristic to serve as a trademark. In the entertainment industry, they help to create product recognition. A trademark must be registered with the U.S. patent and trademark office, and it does not expire. With a trademark, a company can begin to establish brand identity.

How Can a Illinois Attorney Help?

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