Minneapolis Copyright Lawyer

Copyright Protection

A copyright is a legal concept giving the creator the exclusive right to copy, modify, publicly distribute, display or perform an original work. In addition to being original, the work must be or have been "fixed in a tangible medium of expression" and be the result of at least some creative effort.

As creative works often derive inspiration and material from other sources, copyright protection can be a complicated task, especially in light of the speed and ease of broad dissemination of information via the Internet and other digital technologies.

An original work receives copyright protection the moment it is “fixed in a tangible medium of expression”, regardless of whether it is a document or photo posted to a website or a speech presented at a conference. However, registration with the Copyright Office is necessary to fully protect against infringement and to receive statutory damages for any violations.

Work protected by copyright is also often subject to licensing agreements, which enable another to use or distribute the work subject to pre-defined terms.

For assistance with copyright protection, infringement disputes or licensing issues in both the U.S. and abroad, contact the experienced Minneapolis copyright lawyers of the Skjold ▪ Barthel firm at 612.746.2560.

T. Michael Davis, Esq. leads our international and intellectual property division through the licensed trademark Scandia-Germania, the Skjold ▪ Barthel law firm is well-prepared to assist in branding, licensing, introducing and protecting intellectual property portfolios in markets across North America, Scandinavia, and Central Europe. Visit our site for more detail regarding our international capabilities.