Entertainment law offers services such as contracts and copyrights that are particularly designed for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. It is an imminent concern for those who work in the entertainment industries that their work is never plagiarized or exploited. Copyright and trademark laws in Michigan are intended to safeguard the intellectual property rights of those who work in the entertainment field.

What is A Copyright?

With a copyright, a party has the right to exclusively produce a given form of entertainment. Others who want to use it must first get the consent of the copyright holder. The consent of the copyright holder for others to use the protected material is called a license. In Michigan, the copyright holder has the exclusive privilege of negotiating all licenses it issues. Entertainment law determines the process for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued. These concerns are important as you go about protecting your property rights or licensing your work 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. Although they do not expire, trademarks must be obtained through registering with the U.S. patent and trademark office. With your trademark, buyers will begin to recognize your product more easily.

How Can a Michigan Attorney Help?

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