copyright
Copyright confers exclusive rights in relation to the economic exploitation of a copyright work (for example to reproduce, perform, display or license a work). The purpose of copyright is to provide protection to the expression of original thought. Such protection arises automatically; there is no need for registration.
Copyright protection will also offer concurrent moral rights protection (in relation to authorial works - see below). The subsistence of moral rights are dependent on the subsistence of copyright, the former will not exist without the latter.
what types of works are capable of copyright protection?
There exist two broad categories of works that are capable of copyright protection: authorial works and entrepreneurial works.
Authorial works include various types of literary, dramatic, artistic and musical works. For such works to enjoy copyright protection they must be original, which in copyright terms refers to the expression (or form) of an idea rather than the idea itself.
As regards entrepreneurial works (which will include, for example, broadcasts and sound recordings) there is no such requirement of originality, but the duration of copyright protection will be less extensive.
Copyright is conferred in respect of both authorial and entreprenuerial works irrespective of the quality of the work.
copyright advice and services
palmer biggs legal offers specialist advice and services to clients in relation to a range of copyright related issues, including the commercial exploitation and licensing of copyright, as well as infringement of copyright material.
If you require further information please contact us.
