Entertainment law is a branch of law concerned specifically 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 great concern for those working in the entertainment industries. In New Hampshire, the intellectual property rights of artists are protected by several laws that includes copyright and trademark provisions.

What is A Copyright?

A copyright includes the privilege to exclusively produce a certain form of entertainment, and the copyright holder must give consent for others to be able to use it. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in New Hampshire, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and receive a license or contract from you first. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are governed 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 establish product recognition. A trademark must be registered with the U.S. patent and trademark office, and it does not expire. With a trademark, a company may begin to establish brand identity.

How Can a New Hampshire Attorney Help?

Many Attorneys in Meredith 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 New Hampshire.