Angela Russell, Attorney

Part of the Carlson Law Group
12655 SW Center St. Ste 135
Beaverton OR 97005

(503) 469-1229 

angela@angela-russell.com      

http://www.facebook.com/angela.russell.attorney

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What is a Copyright?  Written  in connection with my appearance on the Makings of a MOB (Mom-Owned Business) on Blog Talk Radio http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thepowermob/page/2  What is a copyright? Copyright is protection offered by the law for “original works of authorship” in the following categories: literary works, musical works, including any accompanying words; dramatic works, including any accompanying music; pantomimes and choreographic works; pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works; motion pictures and other audiovisual works; sound recordings; and architectural works. A copyright in an original work of authorship is created automatically created the first time it is fixed in copy or in a recording for the first time. For example, if I think of an article in my head there is no copyright, but when I type it, I have a copyright. In what cases would you recommend registering for copyright protection? Registering a copyright is not a prerequisite to copyright protection. However, it does give advantages to the author. In determining whether to register your copyright, you should evaluate the likelihood that someone will try to copy your work, and the additional rights afforded to a registered copyright owner against the time and expense involved with registration. I would not suggest filing a copyright application for every tweet you send. However, if you write a screenplay, I would recommend registering it. What is the process of registering for copyrights? To register a copyright, go to the Copyright office website www.copyright.gov  Most types of works can be registered online by filling out an online form, paying the application fee and submitting an electronic copy of the work. Where do I look for more information? The Copyright office website  www.copyright.gov  has information relating to copyright protection in the United States.  Circular 230 Disclaimer:  If any portion of this communication is interpreted as providing federal tax advice, Treasury Regulations require that we inform you that we neither intended nor wrote this communication for you to use in avoiding federal tax penalties that the IRS may attempt to impose and that you may not use it for such purpose.