Why Retain the Copyright Rights if You’re Not Going to Register?

Many, if not most, creators who work for clients typically retain the copyright rights in their work. Commercial photographers and illustrators, for instance, use standard written agreements affirming that they retain the rights to the images and then lay out the terms by which the client(s) may use the works. Naturally, some clients will insist,Continue reading “Why Retain the Copyright Rights if You’re Not Going to Register?”

DIY Copyright Registration is a Good Idea

Any attorney will tell creative professionals to register their work the U.S. Copyright Office because without timely registration, taking enforcement action against an infringement is either hindered or impossible. Some creators register on their own, and others have attorneys do it for them. But the truth is that it’s better (and cheaper!) to do itContinue reading DIY Copyright Registration is a Good Idea

Don’t Be Afraid of the Small Claim Copyright Alternative

For decades, independent creators were given the copyright tools that suited others’ needs – an expensive one-size-fits-all option of suing in federal court, subject to timing requirements for registration that took away key remedies. Finally, Congress has enacted a small-claim option designed especially for independent creators. And the anti-copyright crowd is hoping they can trickContinue reading “Don’t Be Afraid of the Small Claim Copyright Alternative”