How do I trademark a brand name that is no longer being used, but was used in the past?

The fact that it was used in the past only means that it is more likely that it might still be in use, but you would approach this the same you...

If you don't have at least three years of direct manufacturing / distributing business experience AND at least 100K to put upfront for the minimum...

Can I only get a record deal if my songs are copyrighted?

Any creative expression will be covered by copyright law automatically. Then you register the work with the US Copyright Office so to perfect your...

Can I register as a sole trader for an online tutoring website in New York or does it have to be a company?

What you are describing has a lot of nuances and legal considerations to think through. Operating as a sole proprietor for something like this is...

Does EVERYTHING I write down, photograph, etc. establish copyright?

Any creative expression will be covered by copyright law automatically. Then you register the work with the US Copyright Office so to perfect your...

Is it legal to own a consumer advocacy website like consumerreports.org?

Section 230 covers the webmaster or ISP from claims arising from user generated content. It would not cover for the content you yourself post. YELP...

Would a simple media release in an email allow me to repurpose and sell expert interviews without having to pay royalties?

It sounds like you have two issues to account for. One is the release, which covers the publicity and privacy rights aspects. The other issue is...

There is an exception defined in the copyright law for use of copyright protected content within the class room learning environment of a...

Is there a DCMA public domain or other exceptions?

As noted, copyright interest is not waived just because someone allows their material to be accessible for free online. If you feel you need...

I have a question about knockoff products. Is it illegal to sell a product that is similar to a product on the market?

A knockoff is not necessarily illegal. A counterfeit product is. So a knockoff that might resemble some other fashion brand is likely not going to...