Copyright Law

Creating a work of art, writing a book, or releasing a publication is not an easy task. By all means, everyone involved in such endeavors will do anything to protect them. The Copyright Law serves as a written shield to secure ownership of a publication or any other intellectual property. From another perspective, if you are the end user of books, websites, music, or any thing that you know that might have been produced after a serious effort, you must also know the copyright law. In Germany, the copyright law is continually evolving. It follows the EU Copyright Directive which grants 70 years of copyright protection after the death of the author. A few years back, the German Copyright law encompassed digital works. Issues have also been raised to expand it to the use of hard disks for making copies of copyrighted works. Whether you are the creator of a copyrighted work or the end use of a commodity, the law must be respected. They are beginning to be imposed strictly in all corners of the globe. Everyone is starting to exert a conscious effort to protect works from piracy or illegal use. Lawyers in Munich will be able to give you advice if you are not quite sure if you are violating any provision of the copyright law. Tips on How to Avoid Violating the Copyright Law Knowing the law is the best way to avoid any legal complaint being filed against you or your company. Here are some practical tips which you can use from day to day to make sure that you adhere to the Copy Right Law: • Never assume that acknowledging the author or owner of work spares you from infringement. Remember that using a copyrighted material requires an explicit consent from the author or owner of the work. • Never copy a material even if it doesn’t clearly state that its protected by copyright. It will be best to play safe if you are not certain. Most laws also grants protection to published or digital works without the need for a written notice. • Check any licensing agreement that a work might have. This will save you from all the trouble and legal problems. • When you have inappropriately used a copyrighted material be prepared for the consequences. Removing the material from your publication or website doesn’t automatically clear your record. The owner of the material has all the right to go after any violators of the copyright law. • If you cannot find the copyright holder, search. If you still cannot find the copyright holder, search again. Never assume that a material is a free for all source since the author or owner cannot be easily identified. Lawyers in Munich will be able to discuss with you any implications of the copyright law which may impact your output or product.