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. Artists have certain intellectual property rights in Minnesota, which are safeguarded in part by copyright and trademark laws.

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. A license is when a copyright holder gives its permission for another to use the protected material. Negotiating license agreements in Minnesota is the exclusive privilege of the copyright holder. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are controlled 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 symbol or other notable visual characteristic that people associate with a brand is a trademark. Visual cues are key in the entertainment industry to create product recognition. The U.S. patent and trademark office if responsible for issuing trademark rights, and once issued trademarks are permanent. They can go a long way to create brand identity.

How Can a Minnesota Attorney Help?

An attorney in Shakopee 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 Minnesota.