Entertainment law is the package of services, including contracts and copyrights, that is intended for pieces of entertainment like books, movies and visual arts. Protecting work from being plagiarized or otherwise exploited is a great concern for those working in the entertainment industries. Copyright and trademark laws protect artists in West Virginia, 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 is the legal right to exclusively produce a certain medium, such as art, movies and writing. Others are prevented from using or reproducing your copyrighted materials without your consent. A license is when a copyright holder gives its consent for another to use the protected material. Negotiating license agreements in West Virginia is the exclusive privilege of the copyright holder. Entertainment law determines the procedure for getting a copyright and how long it lasts once issued. These concerns are important as you go about protecting your property rights or licensing your work to others.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a symbol or other notable visual characteristic that is associated with a particular 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 establish brand identity.

How Can a West Virginia Attorney Help?

Entertainment law is sometimes an area of specialization for Attorneys in Buckhannon, 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 West Virginia.