Brian Russ Law, Inc. is committed to advising 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 difficulties of business owners and individuals when they think about and try to understand copyright law. Brian works with creatives throughout California to address common issues like copyright registration, fair use analysis, licensing decisions, and more. If you want legal advice in Imperial Beach for copyright issues, then you’ve come to the right place.

What Is Copyright Infringement?

An unauthorized use of a copyrighted work is considered infringement. Infringement of copyright can occur through reproduction, distribution, adaptation, or public display. To ensure creators and authors have control over how their work is used and distributed, copyright law exists. 
Copyright infringement can take many forms, including copying and distributing music, videos, or other media without permission, using someone else's work as your own, or reproducing and selling copies of a copyrighted work without permission. An infringer may be held liable for monetary damages if they commit copyright infringement. In general, the infringer's state of mind is not relevant for basic questions about whether the work was infringement. 
Using others' work must be done with permission and with respect for their copyright. Fair use for purposes of criticism, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research is an exception to copyright law. Fair use exceptions are narrow and should not be relied upon unless you are certain that your use is covered. 

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

In the event that you are sued for copyright infringement, you should take the matter seriously and take the steps necessary to protect your rights. You should take the following three steps first: 
First, you need to seek legal advice. In the event that you have been sued for copyright infringement, you should obtain legal counsel as soon as possible. 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, 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. 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. If you continue to infringe after receiving notice of infringing activity, you may appear to be acting in bad faith. 

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

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