What are some benefits of registering a copyright?

Proper registration of a copyright can provide many benefits, including:

  • a public record of the copyrighted work and its registration;
  • the right to file an infringement suit against a substantially similar work; and
  • a potential award of statutory damages & attorneys fees for infringement.

Secondary benefits of registering the copyright can include:

  • legal notice of the copyright;
  • a deterrent effect against potential pirates/infringers;
  • recognition in a crowded market (e.g., John Grisham, Steven King);
  • an enhanced ability to exploit the work via licensing (e.g., Pixar);
  • improved opportunities to build a protectable "product" identity, e.g.:
    • the Bond films
    • the Disney characters
    • the Beatle's lyrics and tunes
    • Thomas Kincaid's impressionist paintings

© 2002-2013  •  MICHAEL HAYNES PLC  •  LEGAL Notices    •  REVISED: 20130217  •  1-434-972-9988