If you work in the entertainment industry, it is likely that you are tasked with creating content, whether this is through the medium of writing, directing or the creation of sound. This creation will be unique to you and will be your source of income. However, ideas and artistic creations are relatively intangible compared to a physical commercial object.
This intangibility of creative content can mean that writers, directors and artists can be vulnerable to intellectual property theft. Intellectual property law works to protect creators, inventors and companies from having valuable intellectual property stolen by competitors.
Is copyright automatic for artists and creators?
If, for example, you are a songwriter and want to protect your song lyrics from being stolen, you may be considering your copyright options. It is important to note that your song lyrics are automatically protected under copyright law when you have the song lyrics written down or you have proof of their existence. Therefore, it is not mandatory to register a copyright with your song.
However, by registering the copyright before any infringement takes place, you will likely have legal advantages if a dispute arises. Additionally, it is likely that you will be able to maximize compensation when you have a registered copyright.
Can I transfer a copyright?
Your automatic copyright will be transferred to the publisher when you sign a deal. In this deal, there will be the terms of royalties that you will be set to receive when the song is sold.
If you are a music creator in the state of Georgia, it is important that you understand your rights under intellectual property law.