Copyrights
A Copyright is a form of intellectual property protection grounded in Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, and granted by law for original works of authorship fixed in a tangible means of expression. Both published and unpublished works are covered by Copyrights. Copyrights protect original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic work, such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, and architecture. Copyrights protect expressions but not facts, ideas, systems, or methods of operation. Copyright protection vests the moment the work is created and fixed in a tangible form that it is perceptible either directly or with the aid of a machine or device. Registration of the work is not required; however, if you wish to bring a lawsuit for infringement of a U.S. work. Registration is recommended for a number of reasons. Many choose to register their works because they wish to have the facts of their copyright on the public record and have a certificate of registration. Registered works may be eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in successful litigation. Finally, if registration occurs within 5 years of publication, it is considered prima facie evidence in a court of law.
Our charges for Copyright issues vary by matter, and are based on an hourly rate of $200/hr. Please note that it is not a substitute for registration, and never a good idea, to rely on mailing a copy of your expression to yourself. There are no provisions in the law for such a mailing.