Brian Russ Law, Inc. is dedicated to supporting 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, lawyer Brian gets the struggles of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with creatives across California to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you want legal guidance in Grover Beach 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. Infringement of copyright can occur through reproduction, distribution, adaptation, or public display. Copyright law exists to protect the rights of creators and authors, and to ensure that they are able to control how their work is used and disseminated. 
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. Most copyright infringements are civil offenses, and the copyright owner may pursue monetary damages. 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. 
It is important to respect the copyright of others and to seek permission 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?

Taking steps to protect your interests is important if you are sued for copyright infringement. Follow these three steps to get started: 
First, seek legal advice. As soon as possible after being sued for copyright infringement, it is important to seek legal advice. It is important to speak with a lawyer to understand your rights and options, and to determine what course of action is best for you. 
Second, review the legal complaint that was served on you. Understand the specific allegations of copyright infringement in the complaint filed against you. By identifying your defenses, you will be able to plan your response. 
Third, stop infringing activities if you are engaged in them. By continuing to violate the law, you can expose yourself to additional liabilities. 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 Ready to Help Grover Beach Businesses and Individuals with Copyright Law Matters

The conclusion is easy – contact 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.