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

What is A Copyright?

A copyright for a specific piece of entertainment means that a party has the exclusive right to produce it. If others want to use it, they must first get consent from the copyright holder. The consent of the copyright holder for others to use the protected material is called a license. In Massachusetts, the copyright holder has the exclusive privilege of negotiating any licenses it issues. 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 particular commercial brand may have a symbol or other notable visual characteristic to serve as a trademark. In the entertainment industry, they help to establish 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 may begin to establish brand identity.

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 Wellesley that has specialized in entertainment law. The filing process in Massachusetts can also go more smoothly with an attorney to guide you.