What is a copyright?

Another way of protecting intellectual property is through the use of a copyright.

 

Copyright offers legal protection against all kinds of works such as written documents, software, music, video, etc.  It gives you legal protection in the event that someone else reproduce and distribute your work without your permission.

 

Works protected under Copyright lasts long after the life of the author.

 

Copyrights are managed by the Library of Congress.

Answers to questions such as what is a Copyright, what is protected and what is not, etc. can be found at the  Library of Congress FAQ page.
 

Who can file a copyright?

Anyone can file a copyright application with the Library of Congress.  The process is easy and takes only a few minutes.  You could complete the process in 5 minutes.

The current system allow you to file electronically over the Internet.  Have your file ready in "PDF" format.

You can file at:  Library of Congress
 

What does it Cost?

It only cost $45 dollars to file a copyright application.  Be sure to use the correct FORM when filing.  You can pay online via credit card, or check.
 

How long does it take to get a copyright?
It takes an average of 6 months to get a copyright if the application was filled out correctly.

 

Other Forms of Protection

Patent, Trademark and Copyright provides protection for many areas.  However, what if you had an idea for a game show, or a TV show, for example.  Since it is an idea and not an actual object, process or written script you can’t Patent, Trademark or Copyright it. 

 

You can protect such ideas or concepts by registering your work with the following organizations:

 

The Writers Guild

 

Writers Guild of America West

Writers Guild of America East

 

                       The Writers Vault

The Writers Vault. (in addition to providing copyright service they also help you to promote your idea to production companies). 

TV Writers Vault

 

How to best handle copyright infringements?