Brian Russ Law, Inc. is dedicated to guiding businesses 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 appreciates the worries of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with businesses across California to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you are considering legal guidance in Diamond Springs for copyright issues, then you’ve come to the right place.

What Is Copyright Infringement?

Copyright infringement is the unauthorized use of a copyrighted work without the permission of the copyright owner. Infringement of copyright can occur through reproduction, distribution, adaptation, or public display. It protects the rights of creators and authors, and ensures that their work can be used and distributed in the way that they choose. 
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. In most cases, copyright infringement is a civil offense, and the copyright owner can seek monetary damages from the infringer. A copyright infringement is still an infringement regardless of the infringer's state of mind. For basic questions of whether a work was infringed, the infringer's state of mind does not matter. 
You should seek permission before using someone else's work and respect their copyright. In addition, there are some exceptions to copyright laws, such as fair use by critics, news reporters, teachers, scholars, or researchers. You should, however, only rely on fair use exceptions if you are certain your use falls within their scope. 

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

Taking steps to protect your interests is important if you are sued for copyright infringement. The first three steps are as follows: 
First, get legal advice. If you have been sued for copyright infringement, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. 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. In this way, you can identify any defenses that may be available to you and plan your response accordingly. 
Third, infringing activity must be stopped. By continuing to violate the law, you can expose yourself to additional liabilities. If you continue to infringe despite receiving notice, you may look like a bad-faith intentional actor. 

Brian Russ Law, Inc. is Here to Help Diamond Springs Businesses and Individuals with Copyright Law Matters

The conclusion is simple – call Brian Russ Law, Inc. today. We’re fielding calls 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.