Entertainment law is the package of services, including contracts and copyrights, that is intended for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. In the entertainment industry, protecting your work from being exploited or plagiarized by others is an imminent concern. Artists have certain intellectual property rights in Washington, which are protected in part by copyright and trademark laws.

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. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in Washington, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and obtain a license or contract from you first. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are governed by entertainment law. Aside from protecting your property rights, getting a copyright will allow you to sell licenses to others.

What is a Trademark?

Commercial brands sometimes choose visible characteristics or symbols that are intended to be associated with their products. These symbols are called trademarks. They can go a long way in the entertainment industry to help buyers better recognize your products. 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 Washington Attorney Help?

Many Attorneys in Lynnwood 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 Washington.