Re: Copyrighting

On 10/27/97, Jesse J. Wolbert <jesse[_at_]ce.ufl.edu> wrote:
>
> Carl Letscher <rockshop[_at_]swbell.net> wrote:
> >
> > How can I copyright my music without spending a lot of money?
>
> Carl,
>
> I'll take the leap for the group. The "cheapest" way to (REGISTER) the
> copyright is to do it yourself by using self help pamplets and forms
> provided by the Copyright Office. Children can and do use these forms.
>
> I would be remiss if I did not state that the best method is to find an
> attorney in your area who is certofied in thyis area and charges a
> reasonable fee.

Let's take a step back...

Copyright protection provides a "bundle" of exclusive rights (i.e. several rights) including the right to make copies, the right to create derivative works and the right to perform the work publicly. You acquire these rights by" fixing your work in a tangible medium of expression (i.e. you write your music down or record it). You should provide the proper copyright notice on all copies that you create: "Copyright [the year of first publication] [copyright owner/ your name]".

You can also register your copyright but it is not a condition for obtaining copyright protection. You will have to register your copyright in order to bring suit and registering within 3 months of publication can provide for enhanced or alternative damages in an infringement action. Thus if you register within 3 months of first publication, you can seek statutory damages, which can simplify your lawsuit.

Regards,
David F. Crosby
dcrosby[_at_]lappinkusmer.com
dfcrosby[_at_]earthlink.net Received on Tue Oct 28 1997 - 20:36:34 GMT