Brian Russ Law, Inc. is committed to advising companies and individuals obtain and monetize copyrightable works, and provide defense services for copyright infringement lawsuits. As an author, small business owner, and serial entrepreneur, lawyer Brian recognizes the difficulties of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with companies across the Golden State to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you need legal support in Arbuckle for copyright issues, then you’ve come to the right place.

What Is Copyright Infringement?

Unauthorized use of a copyrighted work without the owner's permission is considered copyright infringement. This can include reproducing, distributing, adapting, or publicly displaying the work without permission. As a result of copyright law, authors and creators are able to control how their work is used and distributed. 
The violation of a copyright can take many forms, including copying and distributing music, videos, and other media without permission, misappropriating someone else's work, and reproducing and selling a copy of a copyrighted work. Copyright infringement is usually a civil offense, and the owner can seek damages for the infringement. The infringer's state of mind is generally not relevant to whether the work was copied. Innocent copyright infringement is still infringement. 
It is important to respect the copyright of others and to seek permission before using their work. Fair use for purposes of criticism, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research is an exception to copyright law. However, fair use exceptions are narrow and should not be relied upon unless you are certain that your use falls within their scope. 

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

It is important to take steps to protect your interests if you are sued for copyright infringement. You should take the following three steps first: 
First, you need to seek legal advice. 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, review the legal complaint that was served on you. Carefully review the complaint that has been filed against you to understand the specific allegations of copyright infringement. Your response will be guided by identifying any defenses you may have available. 
Third, stop your infringing activity if you are engaged in infringement. If you continue to infringe, you may be exposed 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 Arbuckle Businesses and Individuals with Copyright Law Matters

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