Entertainment law is a branch of law concerned specifically with the property issues that surround pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Working in the entertainment industry, you will want to protect your work from being exploited or plagiarized. Copyright and trademark laws in New Jersey are intended to protect the intellectual property rights of those who work in the entertainment field.

What is A Copyright?

A party holding a copyright can exclusively produce a certain form of entertainment, requiring any others who want to use it to get consent first. Under New Jersey law, the holder of a copyright has the right to negotiate licenses for the production of the copyrighted material that others might want to use. Entertainment law determines the procedure 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 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. 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 establish brand identity.

How Can a New Jersey Attorney Help?

An attorney in Mercer County 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, Attorneys may give direction on how to best proceed when seeking a copyright or trademark recognition in New Jersey.