by Brooks Kushman
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CopyrightsExplained byBrooksKushman
s pecializing in intellectual property, Brooks Kushman, a law firm specializing answers frequently asked questions about copyrights. •
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Q: Whom does a copyright protect? A: Copyright law exists to protect the author, who is the original creator of written materials, artistic works, or professional design services. The author automatically owns
the copyright unless there is a written agreement giving the copyright to someone else, such as a publisher.
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Q: Who owns a copyright when a work is commissioned? A: Although the original creator usually owns owns a copyright, in a work-for-hire situation the employer owns the copyright.
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Q: Do I need to use the © copyright symbol on my work to protect it? A: It used to be required to label works with a copyright symbol to ensure protection, but that is no longer the case.
On documents such as books, the © symbol informs users about who owns the copyright, but it is not necessary.
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Q: What constitutes copyright infringement? A: Copyright infringement occurs when a protected work work is distributed, reproduced, or displayed without the copyright owner's consent.
About Brooks Kushman:
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Based in Southfield, Michigan, and staffed with more than 60 experienced attorneys, Brooks Kushman can help register and secure copyrights for its clients.
