It’s not uncommon for works to be inspired or heavily influenced by the creations of those who have come before them. As such, it’s essential to understand how derivative works function in terms of copyright. Whether you are a copyright owner looking to protect your creations from being derived or looking to create a spin-off of sorts based on another work, it’s essential to understand how copyright infringement lawyers can assist you through this complex legal process.
What Are Derivative Works and How Are These Treated Under the Law?
Derivative works are simply works derived from other sources. Generally, they are based on one existing work but can be based on a multitude of other creations. It’s important to note that these works must have elements present from the creation it is based on and a substantial amount of new material to be copyrighted as a derivative work. Additionally, new thought must be placed in the work to make it original enough to be copyrighted as its own work.
Examples of derivate works include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Updated or revised editions of a book
- Sequels to books or movies
- Adaptations from print media to visual media
Derivative works can only be created with permission from the original copyright owner or from works within the public domain.
It is important to note that parodies, reviews, and scholarly works have different laws surrounding their use of copyrighted material in relation to derivative works.
How Can a Copyright Attorney Assist Me?
If you are the owner of a copyright, you may be able to license your work to others to create derivatives. This allows you to retain control over the original work while authorizing how your work is used by another person looking to create something based on your work.
Something that impacts both the original owner of the copyright and the copyright holder for a derivative work is when the original owner withdraws a license. This does not impact the existing copyright for a derivative work. For example, if a novelist removes a license to create the work, but the production company of a movie owns the copyright for the film based on the novelist’s work, it will not affect their ownership of the copyright.
Ensuring you have a copyright attorney on your side is crucial if you are a copyright owner or looking to create a derivative work. Unfortunately, if you do not have permission from the creator, you can face a copyright lawsuit for your unauthorized use of the work.
If you are a copyright owner looking to hold someone responsible for their unauthorized use of your material or a creator looking to register a derivative work, contacting an attorney is crucial to ensure you follow the proper steps to protect yourself and your work. At CopyCat Legal, we understand how complex laws surrounding copyright can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping you through any challenges you may face. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.