Questions and Answers About Copyrights

Copyrights are very important to establish the rights of a writer or other person who creates a form of media. They protect the owner from anyone who should decide to steal their work and sell it or represent it as their own.

What is a copyright?

Copyrights protect a writer's creation and makes sure he or she gets credit for their work whether they make music, or write songs, art and even articles.

How is copyright established?

Copyright is established the moment you record your idea. An idea needs to be expressed in a tangible way to be protected. For example, if you type something and post it online, your copyright begins on your keyboard, and record that you posted it first is proof that it is yours.

Can someone use my information without permission?

There is such thing as Fair Use laws, which allows limited use of our work. It can be used for parody, scholarly criticism, teaching, and news reporting.

Can I use works found on the internet without permission?

Copyright laws protect text and pictures on websites just as they protect books, music, and movies. Just because something does not have a copyright, notice does not mean it is available for use.

Do I have to register my copyright to be protected?

No. Copyright begins the moment the work is recorded on paper, video, or otherwise. It is wise, however to register certain works to create a public record of ownership.

What does it cost to register my work as copy written material?

The cost of registering a work for copyright is fairly reasonable. A paper application costs $45.00 and an electronic filing fee is $35.00. As of July 1, 2007, electronic filing is not yet open to the general public. There are additional charges for things such as renewals, certifications, claims, and services, which vary in price from $35.00 to over $100.00.

What is a poor mans copyright?