Copyright Law

Copyright laws provide for the protection of original works - of words, drawings, plans, designs, artwork, ornamentation, sculpture, and other means of expression. Original works are automatically copyrighted, but there are advantages to registering a copyright.

Registration is required when taking a copyright infringement matter to court. For those works registered within three months of origin, the plaintiff does not have to prove actual damages to be awarded statutory damages and attorneys' fees.

Copyrights can be used to protect original works including written works and artistic designs. The copyright lawyers at the Fulwider Patton law firm can advise you concerning your rights.

The copyright attorneys at Fulwider Patton help clients protect their copyrights by:

• Educating the company's employees concerning copyright law
• Establishing guidelines concerning what work products should be registered with the copyright office
• Keeping an inventory of registered copyrights
• Writing internal policies about the use of copyrighted materials belonging to other individuals and businesses
• Drafting copyright ownership agreements for employees and suppliers providing "work for hire"
• Litigating copyright infringement cases

Fulwider Patton represents clients on intellectual property matters from the United States, Europe and the Pacific Rim from our offices in Los Angeles. For the widest possible protection of your rights, we work with a global network of intellectual property resources.