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 Missouri, which are safeguarded in part by copyright and trademark laws.

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 Missouri 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 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. 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 Missouri Attorney Help?

Entertainment law is sometimes an area of specialization for Lawyers in Clay County, so you may want to speak with them to find out whether you need a trademark or copyright. Also once you do apply, attorneys serve as good guides through the process of obtaining intellectual property right in Missouri.