Entertainment law is the package of services, containing 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 massive concern for those working in the entertainment industries. Copyright and trademark laws safeguard 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 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. In order to comply with the entertainment laws in West Virginia, someone seeking to use your copyrighted material must negotiate and get a license or contract from you first. 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 particular commercial brand may have a symbol or other notable visual characteristic to serve as a trademark. In the entertainment industry, they help to create 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 West Virginia Attorney Help?

Many Lawyers in Huntington 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 West Virginia.