Introduction
A copyright is a form of legal protection granted by the laws of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) to authors of "original works of authorship" including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works such as websites and computer programs. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works.
A copyrighted work may not be copied, reproduced, distributed or publicly displayed without the consent of the author or copyright owner. To prove ownership, protect your original work and prevent theft and plagiarism, it is important to register a copyright. It's fast, inexpensive and the protection of the U.S. federal government provides powerful ammunition against potential infringement.
Please use this Copyright Guide we have provided to familiarize yourself with how copyright protection can help you protect your intellectual property and find out more about how the expert team at DirectLegal can help you begin your application today. By using DirectLegal.com you'll benefit from a quick, easy-to-use online application and highly professional service.
- Introduction
- What Copyright Protects
- Exclusive Rights
- Multiple Works - One Application
- Benefits of Copyright Registration
- If You Don't Register
- Copyright, Trademark, or Patent
- Who Can Register
- Work Made for Hire
- Joint Works
- Non U.S. Applicants
- Pseudonyms
- Copyright Notice
- Copyright Deposit or Date Stamp
- Governing Law
- International Protection
- Publication
- Derivative Works
- Changed Work
- Copyright Infringement
- Non-Infringing Use
- Public Domain
- Moral Rights
- Logos
- Names & Phrases
- Recipes
- Cartoons & Comic Strips
- Photographs
- Play, Treatments & Scripts
- Visual Arts

