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. In New Hampshire, the intellectual property rights of artists are safeguarded by several laws that includes copyright and trademark provisions.

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. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in New Hampshire, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and get a license or contract from you first. 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?

Commercial brands sometimes choose visible characteristics or symbols that are intended to be linked with their products. These symbols are called trademarks. They can go a long way in the entertainment industry to help buyers better recognize your products. Trademarks do not expire. They are acquired through registration with the U.S. patent and trademark office. Consumers recognize brands better when they have associated trademarks.

How Can a New Hampshire Attorney Help?

An attorney in Newport 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 New Hampshire.