Entertainment law includes legal services, such as contracts and copyrights, that are aimed at safeguarding 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 never plagiarized or exploited. Copyright and trademark laws in Texas are intended to safeguard 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 given 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 Texas also has the exclusive privilege of selling all licenses for the price it chooses. Entertainment law controls 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 symbol or other notable visual characteristic that people associate with a brand is a trademark. Visual cues are key in the entertainment industry to create product recognition. Trademarks, unlike copyrights, do not expire. However, they must be registered with the U.S. patent and trademark office. Once you have your trademark, creating brand identity becomes much easier.

How Can a Texas Attorney Help?

An attorney in Gonzales 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 Texas.