Copyrights & Intellectual Property
Contact The Iwashko Law Firm in Washington, DC
Federally-registered Copyrights protect artists’ works from unauthorized reproduction, sale/distribution, public display, and performance. Although an artist receives a minimal amount of protection under the common law when creative work is transcribed on a tangible medium, securing a federally-registered Copyright is often recommended to allow for a maximum amount of protection and potential benefits.
Mr. Iwashko, the founder of The Iwashko Law Firm, is himself a singer/songwriter, musician, dancer/choreographer, and writer, so he fully understands the importance and seriousness surrounding Copyright protection for creative works of art.
The attorneys at the Iwashko Law Firm are skilled at dealing with a myriad of Copyright matters, including (but not limited to) federal copyright litigation, title searches, use/infringement/licensing opinions, negotiating/drafting licensing agreements, and Copyright registration/recordation.
Feel free to contact The Iwashko Law Firm to verify whether filing a Copyright is the right course of action for you.
How long does copyright protection last?
Copyright terms depend on a few different factors, including whether the work has been published, and, if so, the date of first publication. However, typically, for works created after January 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author PLUS an additional 70 years.
Alternatively, for an anonymous work or a work made for hire, the copyright lasts for 95 years from the year of its first publication OR a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first.
What are the artistic categories for which an artist can seek protection?
- Literary works – Books, Poetry, Advertising, Sermons, Manuals, Periodicals, Brochures
- Artistic works – Paintings, Sculptures, Drawings, Arrangements, Architectural Designs, Fixtures, Photographs, Fashion Design
- Performance Works – Movies, Plays, Musicals, Poetry Readings, Dance Performances
- Computer Works – Websites, Video Games, Computer Programs, Databases, Online Educational Content
- Choreographies – Dance, Pantomimes, Cheerleading Cheers, Parade Marches, Halftime Shows, Concerts, Music Videos
- Scientific Works – Journals, Lectures, Methodologies, Theories
- Music – Songs, Lyrics, Melodies
