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. When a copyright holder gives consent for others to use the protected material, it is called a license. A copyright holder in New York also has the exclusive privilege of selling any licenses for the price it chooses. Entertainment law governs 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 specific 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 start to recognize your product more easily.

How Can a New York Attorney Help?

Entertainment law is sometimes an area of specialization for Attorneys in Long Beach, 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 New York.