Legal Information

Legal Resources

Comprehensive legal information and resources for copyright protection

Copyright Laws & Legislation

U.S. Copyright Law

The Copyright Act of 1976 (Title 17 of the U.S. Code) is the primary source of copyright law in the United States. Key provisions include:

Duration: Life of author plus 70 years
Registration: Optional but provides legal benefits
Fair Use: Limited use for criticism, commentary, education
Statutory Damages: $750 - $30,000 per work (up to $150,000 for willful infringement)

Key U.S. Copyright Resources

U.S. Copyright Office

Official government resource for registration and information

www.copyright.gov

Copyright Law of the United States

Complete text of U.S. copyright legislation (Title 17)

www.copyright.gov/title17

Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)

The DMCA (1998) addresses digital copyright issues and provides a safe harbor for online service providers who comply with takedown procedures.

DMCA Takedown Process

Copyright owner identifies infringing content
Submits DMCA takedown notice to service provider
Service provider removes or disables access to content
User may file counter-notice if they believe removal was improper
Copyright owner has 10-14 days to file lawsuit or content is restored

DMCA Resources

International Copyright Protection

Major International Treaties

Berne Convention

International agreement covering copyright protection (179 countries)

Established: 1886

WIPO Copyright Treaty

Addresses digital works and technological protection

Established: 1996

TRIPS Agreement

Trade-related intellectual property rights (WTO members)

Established: 1995

Regional Copyright Laws

European Union: Copyright Directive, GDPR data protection
United Kingdom: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
Canada: Copyright Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-42)
Australia: Copyright Act 1968
India: Copyright Act 1957

Copyright Enforcement & Remedies

Available Remedies

Injunctive Relief

Court order to stop infringing activity immediately

Actual Damages

Compensation for actual losses and infringer's profits

Statutory Damages

$750-$30,000 per work ($150,000 for willful infringement)

Attorney's Fees

Recovery of legal costs in successful cases

Enforcement Agencies

U.S. Department of Justice: Criminal copyright enforcement
FBI: Investigates large-scale piracy operations
ICE (Homeland Security): International enforcement
Copyright Alliance: Industry advocacy and education

Need Legal Assistance?

If you need legal advice or representation for copyright matters, we recommend consulting with a qualified intellectual property attorney. We also provide referrals to experienced legal professionals.