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LegalShield Small Business Legal Plans offer small business owners access to business lawyers in their local areas for a fraction of the normal cost.
Copyright is a form of intellectual property that protects authors, artists and creators from unauthorized individuals or organizations using their original works.
Copyright law covers creative works such as songs, novels, movies, computer software, poetry and architecture.
As a small business owner, you may think copyright applies less to you than it does to those working in fields more traditionally considered as creative. The truth is that every business has materials that may benefit from filing a copyright, from the words on your website to the promotional videos, flyers, and ads that you’ve put time and money into creating. While your product may be the central focus of your company, don’t forget about protecting the copyrights that comprise your brand.
If you’re not sure which type of protection you need, visit our general intellectual property law page.
Some businesses may take the approach that intellectual property matters can be handled in-house to save on lawyer fees, but failing to get legal help when needed can lead to costly mistakes in the long run. A copyright lawyer can assist with:
In the United States, as soon as you create something original in a fixed medium, it’s copyrighted automatically. However, if you’re looking to protect your work in the event you need to take action against infringement you should formally register with the United States Copyright Office.
A lawyer can also ensure you’re on the right path. The last thing you want is to do is file for a copyright when you should also be filing for a trademark or the item does not qualify in the first place. Even if you’re sure you need a copyright, you don’t want to file it by yourself and think you’re protected only to find out later that there was an issue with your registration.
There’s an easy and affordable solution, a Small Business Plan from LegalShield.
If someone misuses your copyrighted work without permission or license, they are infringing upon your copyright. And if you’ve registered your copyright, you may be able to take action against that individual or business, if warranted.
Your intellectual property and copyrights are an essential part of your brand identity, and having them stolen can cause real damage to your business. By working with a lawyer, you can stop the infringement and collect any compensation owed.
Most lawyers cost between $150-$400 per hour. An experienced intellectual property lawyer may charge $150-$500 to register a copyright.
When filing a copyright registration, it’s important to work with a specialist that truly understands how to follow the filing rules and ensure you get the right protection.
If you have a small business plan from LegalShield, you can register your copyright yourself for only $35-$55 (the cost of federal court filing fees). But, you’ll complete the registration process with a copyright lawyer by your side. They’ll answer questions, provide legal advice and review your registration documents before you file them, all for a fraction of typical law firm fees.
LegalShield’s business plans can help you in the following areas:
Legal consultation from a provider lawyer on business legal matters, with legal research for each issue, if needed.
Receive help with business legal matters more efficiently with professional communications issued on your behalf.
Put business-related legal document through legal review.
A collection letter from a provider lawyer could help you recoup payments more efficiently.
Finding solutions to your legal issues doesn’t have to be stressful, complicated or expensive. LegalShield puts the power of legal representation within reach of any individual, family, or business. We work hard to make it easy, simple, and affordable to get the legal help you need, when you need it.
LegalShield offers the most affordable way to have a lawyer on your side.
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