Brian Russ Law, Inc. is committed to supporting 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 understands the difficulties of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with folks throughout the Golden State to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you are considering legal guidance in El Verano 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. Unauthorized reproductions, distributions, adaptations, or public displays of the work are all examples of copyright infringements. To ensure creators and authors have control over how their work is used and distributed, copyright law exists. 
If you copy and distribute music, videos, or other media without permission, use someone else's work as your own, or reproduce and sell copies of a copyrighted work without permission, you may have committed copyright infringement. Copyright infringement is usually a civil offense, and the owner can seek damages for the infringement. If the work has been infringement, the state of mind of the infringer generally does not matter. 
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. 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?

The matter of copyright infringement should be taken seriously and protected if you are sued. 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. The advice of a lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. 
Second, review the legal complaint that was served on you. Understand the specific allegations of copyright infringement in the complaint filed against you. Your response will be guided by identifying any defenses you may have available. 
Third, if you are infringing, stop You can expose yourself to additional liability by continuing the infringement. In some cases, receiving notice of infringing activity puts you in a position of looking like a bad-faith intentional infringer. 

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

The conclusion is straightforward – contact 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.