Entertainment law is the package of services, containing contracts and copyrights, that is intended for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. In the entertainment industry, safeguarding your work from being exploited or plagiarized by others is an imminent concern. Copyright and trademark laws safeguard artists in Washington, and are among a body of laws that defines the intellectual property rights of those working in the entertainment field.

What is A Copyright?

A copyright for a particular piece of entertainment means that a party has the exclusive right to produce it. If others want to use it, they must first get consent from 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 Washington also has the exclusive privilege of selling all licenses for the price it chooses. Whether you can get a copyright, the procedure for getting one, and how long it lasts once issued are questions determined by entertainment law. With a copyright, you can protect your property rights for the future, or you can simply start licensing it to others.

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. 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 create brand identity.

How Can a Washington Attorney Help?

Entertainment law is sometimes an area of specialization for Lawyers in Auburn, 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 Washington.