Entertainment law offers services such as contracts and copyrights that are particularly designed for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Working in the entertainment industry, you will want to safeguard your work from being exploited or plagiarized. Copyright and trademark laws in Massachusetts are intended to safeguard the intellectual property rights of those who work in the entertainment field.

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. A license is when a copyright holder gives its permission for another to use the protected material. Negotiating license agreements in Massachusetts is the exclusive privilege of the copyright holder. Entertainment law controls whether you can get a copyright, how to apply for one, and how long it lasts once issued. A copyright will allow you to profit from licensing your material to others, or it may simply protect your rights in the piece of entertainment for the future.

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 Massachusetts Attorney Help?

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