Entertainment law offers services such as contracts and copyrights that are particularly designed for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Plagiarism and other forms of exploitation often threaten the products of those who work in the entertainment industries. In Louisiana, the intellectual property rights of artists are safeguarded by several laws that includes copyright and trademark provisions.

What is A Copyright?

A copyright is the legal right to exclusively produce a given medium, such as art, movies and writing. Others are prevented from using or reproducing your copyrighted materials without your consent. When a copyright holder gives consent for others to use the protected material, it is called a license. A copyright holder in Louisiana also has the exclusive privilege of selling all licenses for the price it chooses. Whether you can get a copyright, the procedure for getting one, and how long it lasts once issued are questions determined by entertainment law. With a copyright, you can protect your property rights for the future, or you can simply start licensing it to others.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is any noticeable characteristic that is associated with something, such as the symbol for a commercial brand. Trademarks can be key to creating product recognition in the entertainment industry. 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 Louisiana Attorney Help?

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