Brian Russ Law, Inc. is resolved to guiding corporations 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 recognizes the struggles of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with people across the Golden State to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you want legal support in Eucalyptus 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. The act of reproducing, distributing, adapting, or publicly displaying a work without permission constitutes copyright infringement. To ensure creators and authors have control over how their work is used and distributed, copyright law exists. 
Using someone else's work without permission is a form of copyright infringement, as is reproducing and selling copies of a copyrighted work. In most cases, copyright infringement is a civil offense, and the copyright owner can seek monetary damages from the infringer. If the work has been infringement, the state of mind of the infringer generally does not matter. 
You should seek permission before using someone else's work and respect their copyright. Fair use for purposes of criticism, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research is an exception to copyright law. There are, however, a few exceptions to fair use, and you should not rely on them unless you know for sure that your use is permitted. 

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. Follow these three steps to get started: 
First, get legal advice. You should seek legal advice as soon as possible if you have been sued for copyright infringement. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and advise you on the best course of action. 
Second, read the legal complaint you received. Understand the specific allegations of copyright infringement in the complaint that has been filed against you. By identifying your defenses, you will be able to plan your response. 
Third, stop your infringing activity if you are engaged in infringement. Continuing to infringe can put you at risk of additional liability. And, to some extent, receiving notice of infringing activity puts you in a position of looking like a bad-faith intentional actor if you continue to infringe after receiving notice. 

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

The conclusion is easy – 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.