Copyright FAQ's
What is a copyright?
A copyright is a form of intellectual property law which protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, web sites and architecture. A copyright does not protect facts, ideas, systems, or methods of operation.
How do I establish a copyright?
Your work is under copyright protection the moment it is created and fixed in a tangible form so that it is perceptible either directly or with the aid of a machine or device. It is not necessary to register your copyright to have rights of copyright. There are benefits to registration... in order to actually sue someone, works are eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in successful litigation.
Who can claim copyright?
Under the copyright laws, the creator of the original expression in a work is its author. The author is also the owner of the copyright unless there is a written agreement by which the author assigns the copyright to another person or entity, such as a publisher. In cases of works made for hire, the employer or commissioning party is considered to be the author.
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