I have a brochure I made in 1998 I only have the one copy that I mailed myself to protect the work. I want to update it but don't want to lose any protection I might have by opening the envelope. Is it protecting me, and thus needs to remain unopened, or is that an urban myth?
answered on Feb 24, 2017
This is an urban myth. Original creative works receive copyright protection as soon as they are created in some retrievable form, that is, when they're written or printed. Mailing yourself the work does nothing to enhance that copyright protection. However, filing for statutory copyright... View More 
answered on Feb 8, 2017
If you're looking for general information about patents, the U.S. Patent Office has a good overview here: https://www.uspto.gov/patents-getting-started/general-information-concerning-patents
I have been given a scenario involving someone who creates a concert poster using a NASA Image called Reisman's Self Portrait. He displays this poster around town, social media websites, and personal websites. Would this be infringing on original copyright or would this be considered fair use?
answered on Feb 8, 2017
Under 17 USC 105, copyright does not extend to any work prepared by an officer or employee of the federal government as part of his or her official duties. This provision doesn't prevent the federal government from owning copyrights either by assignment or pursuant to work-made-for-hire... View More
I paint things for family and friends for holidays or a special occasion. I do not have or intend on having a business or sell these items. They are solely gifts. Am I allowed to paint a Disney character on something and give it as a gift, and post a picture of that gift? This was just mentioned to... View More
answered on Jan 27, 2017
This would qualify as trademark/copyright infringement. That being said, Disney would have to find out about this infringement and determine that it's worth their time to sue you, before you'd face the consequences of this infringement.
So, could you get in trouble? Yes.... View More
I run a smallish student organization at my university and we are designing the shirts to sell at an upcoming fundraiser. One of our designs is very similar to the wu tang W logo without the text. The funds raised from the shirts would go back into the club.
Are we allowed to do this right... View More
answered on Jan 27, 2017
You need to get permission to use copyrighted or trademarked images, if you want to avoid the risk of a lawsuit.
Your university probably employs an attorney who can help you obtain licensing rights, or at least advise you on how to do so.
However, someone who holds the rights to... View More
answered on Jan 27, 2017
Your question is unintelligible, you'll need to clarify some things before anyone can help you.
Did you make this video? What do you mean by public video? What right, specifically, are you referring to?
The more information you give, the more accurate an answer you can get.
I'm using many famous action movie/tv icons but with slightly or totally different names and personalities as characters in my book. The story is original, but mocking fantasy and sci-fi tropes. For example I spoof Mick "Crocodile" Dundee by making a character named Paul... View More
answered on Jan 21, 2017
You should speak with a qualified entertainment attorney regarding all the facts of your situation. Your treatment of these fictional characters may be considered "fair use", and the subject of first Amendment expression, which includes biographical, historical, satirical, and parodic... View More
A dice manufacturer has made dice for games like dungeons and dragons that are rainbow pattern. By Layering different colored resin on top of resin until the die is completed. Can this be copyrighted? They said they put in a copyright that protects this in the USA. But I can't find it.
answered on Sep 13, 2016
A copyright springs into being automatically when a work is created in a tangible form, however, registering the copyright with the U.S. Copyright office gives the copyright holder more rights to pursue a remedy if the copyright is infringed by others. You may want to read the general FAQ... View More
I want to create artworks to sell based on scenes from famous films. No names or titles will be used just scenes. Are there any copyright issues with this?
answered on Jun 16, 2015
Yes, you will have a copyright claim to your work. However, creative works based on previous works are considered a "derivative work" and require the permission of the original copyright owner before registration, distribution or pubic display/performance of the subsequent work.... View More
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