Can I Transfer a Copyright?

If you are wondering whether it is possible to transfer a United States copyright, the answer is YES and copyright law is written so that it is fairly simple to do. In fact, many people transfer their copyrights for use by other individuals and entities. This allows you to earn royalties or a principal amount for the rights to your creation.

How do I transfer my nationwide copyright?

Under United States copyright law, to transfer the ownership of a copyright, you must define the transfer in writing. The best way to do this is with the help of a nationwide copyright law attorney. An attorney can assist with the details of the agreement, and help draw up the documentation. The written document must include a signature from the transferor, or from the person who initially possessed the copyright. There is no standard form or document for this transaction, but it must include:

  • A detailed description of the copyrighted property which is being transferred;
  • The names of the individuals or entities who are involved in the transaction; and
  • The terms and rights that have been established regarding the transfer of the copyright

The copyright holder should then submit the documents to the United States Copyright Office. Though this submission is not required by law, it will maintain a record of the transaction, and it will protect the rights of the parties involved. If you need help doing so, you can get the help of a nationwide copyright law attorney.

What about licensing my copyright?

The transfer of a copyright does not always mean the permanent transfer of rights. In fact, the duration of the transfer, as well as other specifics, depend on the details of your agreement. You may transfer the rights for any amount of time, and under any set of circumstances.

One way of granting partial rights to a copyright is through a licensing agreement. This can establish the terms, the length, and the rate of compensation for the copyright. The only absolute terms are those which are agreed upon between the licensor and licensee. These may include the rights to things such as reproductions, distribution and derivative works.

Licensing agreements permit you to maintain control and ownership of your copyright, while the licensee can utilize your property within the terms of the agreement.

Protecting Your Nationwide Copyright

If it happens that a transferee or licensee violates the terms of your agreement, then you have the option of filing a copyright infringement lawsuit. To do this you may need the help of a nationwide copyright law attorney. A nationwide copyright law attorney will know the ins and outs of copyright law, and can assist you anywhere in the United States.

The nationwide copyright attorney team at the ADLI Law Group P.C. are highly experienced in patent, trademark, and copyright services. With clients across the country and around the globe in China, Taiwan and Japan, we’ve helped hundreds of creators secure their ideas. Contact us today – 800-817-2949