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. Artists have certain intellectual property rights in Wisconsin, which are safeguarded in part by copyright and trademark laws.

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. The consent of the copyright holder for others to use the protected material is called a license. In Wisconsin, the copyright holder has the exclusive privilege of negotiating all licenses it issues. The procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued are controlled by entertainment law. Aside from protecting your property rights, getting a copyright will allow you to sell licenses 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 creating product recognition in the entertainment industry. Although they do not expire, trademarks must be obtained through registering with the U.S. patent and trademark office. With your trademark, buyers will begin to recognize your product more easily.

How Can a Wisconsin Attorney Help?

Deciding whether you need a trademark or copyright is often a decision best made with the advice of an attorney in Bayside that has experienced in entertainment law. The filing process in Wisconsin can also go more smoothly with an attorney to guide you.