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. In Michigan, the intellectual property rights of artists are safeguarded by several laws that includes copyright and trademark provisions.
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. Under Michigan law, the holder of a copyright has the right to negotiate licenses for the production of the copyrighted material that others may want to use. 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?
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 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 Michigan Attorney Help?
Many Lawyers in Dearborn Heights practice in entertainment law. They can give you particularized advice about whether you need a copyright or trademark, and they will also guide you in the process of securing these rights in Michigan.