Intellectual Property
Protect your work from copycats. Learn the difference between trademarks, copyrights, and patents so you can safeguard your intellectual property.
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Copyright Laws and School Performances
No doubt you've sat through (and maybe even enjoyed) at least one school play or recital. But is any of it legal?
· 6 min read
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Copyright Assignment: How to Transfer Ownership of Your Creative Work
Copyright assignment is the transfer of a copyright from one party to another. To do it right, follow the steps below.
· 6 min read
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Patent Law Basics: A Legal Overview
Eureka! You’ve finally invented that gadget that’s going to change the world (or at least your corner of it). Now what? Find out how and why to get a patent.
· 5 min read
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How to Protect Against Patent Infringement
Patents give inventors exclusive rights over their work, and the legal authority to protect that exclusivity for the life of the patent. Here's how.
· 8 min read
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How to Sell a Patent: What You Need to Know
You have a patent—what’s next? There are a few ways you can generate a profit from your invention, including selling or licensing your patent.
· 9 min read
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What Is a Service Mark and How Do You Register for One?
Most of us recognize the trademarks of famous brands. But what about a service mark? Learn what service marks are and how they differ from trademarks.
· 6 min read
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What Is a Utility Patent and What Does It Protect?
Utility patents are a form of IP protection for inventors. While pursuing a utility patent can be daunting, they’re often worth the effort and cost.
· 7 min read
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How to Copyright a Website
Businesses have a variety of copyright options to protect their website and content.
· 8 min read
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How Long Does a Copyright Last?
Copyright usually lasts for the author’s lifetime plus 70 years, but it depends on several factors. Learn how long your creative work is protected.
· 6 min read
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Copyright Submission Guidelines
When you register work with the Copyright Office, you submit a deposit—one or more copies of the work—along with the application. Usually, if the work has been published in physical form (e.g., a book, printed flyer, CD, or poster), the Copyright Office requires two physical copies. If the work is unpublished or only available online, the Copyright Office accepts electronic materials.
· 3 min read
