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 safeguard artists in Maryland, and are among a body of laws that defines the intellectual property rights of those working in the entertainment field.

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 Maryland 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?

Commercial brands sometimes choose visible characteristics or symbols that are intended to be linked with their products. These symbols are called trademarks. They can go a long way in the entertainment industry to help buyers better recognize your products. Trademarks, unlike copyrights, do not expire. However, they must be registered with the U.S. patent and trademark office. Once you have your trademark, creating brand identity becomes much easier.

How Can a Maryland Attorney Help?

An attorney in Easton has knowledge of entertainment law in your area, and can give you the information you need to decide whether you need a trademark or copyright. Also, Lawyers may give direction on how to best proceed when seeking a copyright or trademark recognition in Maryland.