Brian Russ Law, Inc. is resolved to advising creatives and individuals obtain and monetize copyrightable works, and provide defense services for copyright infringement lawsuits. As an author, small business owner, and serial entrepreneur, attorney Brian gets the worries of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with creatives throughout California to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you want legal guidance in Agoura Hills for copyright issues, then you’ve come to the right place.

What Is Copyright Infringement?

Copyright infringement occurs when an owner's work is used without their consent. If the work is reproduced, distributed, adapted, or publicly displayed without permission, then copyright infringement has occurred. As a result of copyright law, authors and creators are able to control how their work is used and distributed. 
Copyright infringement can take many forms, including copying and distributing music, videos, or other media without permission, using someone else's work as your own, or reproducing and selling copies of a copyrighted work without permission. In most cases, copyright infringement is a civil offense, and the infringer can be sued for monetary damages. The infringer's state of mind is generally not relevant to whether the work was copied. Innocent copyright infringement is still infringement. 
The copyright of others should be respected and permission sought before using their work. In addition, there are some exceptions to copyright laws, such as fair use by critics, news reporters, teachers, scholars, or researchers. It is important, however, to verify that your use falls within the scope of fair use exceptions before relying upon them. 

What Are Your First Three Steps When Sued for Copyright Infringement?

If you are sued for copyright infringement, it is important to take the matter seriously and take steps to protect your interests. Here are the first three steps you should take: 
First, you need to retain an attorney. You should seek legal advice as soon as possible if you have been sued for copyright infringement. A lawyer can explain your rights and options to you, and advise you on the best course of action. 
Second, you need to review and understand the legal complaint made against you. Review the complaint filed against you carefully to understand the specific allegations of copyright infringement. By identifying your defenses, you will be able to plan your response. 
Third, infringing activity must be stopped. Continuing to infringe can expose you to additional liability. If you continue to infringe despite receiving notice, you may look like a bad-faith intentional actor. 

Brian Russ Law, Inc. is Available to Help Agoura Hills Businesses and Individuals with Copyright Law Matters

The conclusion is easy – contact Brian Russ Law, Inc. today. We’re fielding calls from potential new copyright clients every day. Having an attorney on your team can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you invaluable peace of mind.