Entertainment law is a branch of law concerned particularly with the property issues that surround pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Protecting work from being plagiarized or otherwise exploited is a massive concern for those working in the entertainment industries. Copyright and trademark laws in North Carolina are intended to safeguard the intellectual property rights of those who work in the entertainment field.
What is A Copyright?
A copyright includes the privilege to exclusively produce a given form of entertainment, and the copyright holder must give consent for others to be able to use it. A license is when a copyright holder gives its permission for another to use the protected material. Negotiating license agreements in North Carolina is the exclusive privilege of the copyright holder. 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?
A trademark is a symbol or other notable visual characteristic that is associated with a particular commercial brand. In the entertainment industry, they help to establish product recognition. 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 North Carolina Attorney Help?
Entertainment law is sometimes an area of specialization for Lawyers in Raleigh, 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 North Carolina.