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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
> What is a copyright?
A form of legal protection given to any original work of authorship that
has been reduced to a tangible form.
> What does it protect?
A copyright protects literary works, including articles and books; visual
works, including photographs, films, cartoons, and graphic designs; architectural
works; sound recordings and musical compositions. It does not protect
ideas, names, titles, concepts, or anything not reduced to a tangible
form.
> How long does it last?
A copyright lasts for the life of the copyright holder, plus seventy years.
> How can you protect your copyright?
Use the notice symbol on all your work. Write out the word “Copyright”
or use the “c” inside the circle, or use the abbreviation “Copr.”;
then include the year the work was first published (used in public); then
the name of the copyright holder. Example, [Copyright 2001 Francine Ward,
JD]. This let’s everyone know you’re the owner of the protected
work.
Secondly, always register your work with the United States Copyright Office
(See Resources). It is well worth the $30 for the added protection.
> What is a trademark?
A word, phrase, symbol, design, logo, name, or any combination of, which
distinguishes one entity from another. For example, when you see the golden
arches, you immediately think of McDonald’s and when you hear McDonald’s,
you think of hamburgers.
> How do you protect it?
Although a trademark is protected through use and monitoring, added protection
can be had through federal registration of the mark with the United States
Patent Trademark Office (See Resources).
> How long does it last?
A trademark lasts forever but must be renewed every ten years prior to
expiration. Additionally, an Affidavit of Use must be filed between the
5th and 6th year after registration demonstrating active use of the mark.
> What is a patent?
A patent is legal protection given to a new and useful invention or process.
There are three types of patents: design, utility, and plant.
> How long does it last?
A patent lasts 20 years.
> Can I protect ideas?
While ideas cannot be protected through a copyright, trademark, or patent,
they can be protected through the use of protective agreements or contracts,
such as confidentiality agreements.