Our solutions will match your unique business, technology, and culture

Photo of the legal professionals of Padmanabhan & Dawson PLLC
  1. Home
  2.  » 
  3. Intellectual Property
  4.  » Why are copyright claims so important?

Why are copyright claims so important?

On Behalf of | Nov 12, 2021 | Intellectual Property

Many works are protected by copyright laws in this country. While some people think that they can use whatever they find online in any manner they desire, that’s not always the case. Instead, authors, painters, illustrators, and others who produce creative works should understand how copyright laws protect them. 

These laws are important because they prevent people from being able to use someone else’s creations.  In some cases, copyright protection means that these creative individuals have the ability to earn a living off their craft since their work can’t simply be stolen by others.

When can a copyrighted work be used?

In order to use an original creative work, a person needs to have a licensing agreement with the original creator. In some cases, creators can place their works on the Internet with a predetermined license that enables anyone to use them. 

Certain restrictions can apply, such as having to attribute the work to the creator. Some creators choose to provide works without any restrictions. If a person who creates an original work provides a license to a party to use their work, the creator can’t take legal action based on copyright infringement unless the terms of the license weren’t followed. 

Anyone whose works have been used without permission in a manner that violates copyright laws should learn about their legal rights. It’s imperative that you take steps to protect what’s rightfully yours. Working with someone who has extensive knowledge of copyright laws is often beneficial since this is a very complex area of the law.