Entertainment law is a branch of law concerned specifically with the property issues that surround 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 not plagiarized or exploited. Copyright and trademark laws in New York are intended to protect the intellectual property rights of those who work in the entertainment field.

What is A Copyright?

With a copyright, a party has the right to exclusively produce a certain form of entertainment. Others who want to use it must first get the consent of the copyright holder. The consent of the copyright holder for others to use the protected material is called a license. In New York, the copyright holder has the exclusive privilege of negotiating any licenses it issues. 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 trademark is any noticeable characteristic that is associated with something, such as the symbol for a commercial brand. Trademarks can be key to establishing product recognition in the entertainment industry. 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 York Attorney Help?

Many Attorneys in Lawrence 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 York.