Do the custom graphics created for our website and branding belong to us?

An attorney should review your contract. In general, the graphic artist owns the copyright in the graphics unless there is a signed agreement...

The poet owns the copyright in the new blackout poem. Generally, to be considered a derivative work, the poem must be "based upon" the pre-existing...

Can you host a painting class, teaching the students how to recreate a painting derived from a copyrighted painting?

Most such classes use a painting that is out of copyright; that is, the copyright has expired. Fair Use might not apply because the fees for the...

I recommend you keep in touch with the lawyer who sent you the letter and try to settle this matter. Getting sued in federal court will cost much...

What is the smallest court in which I can sue a social media website for copyright infringement?

You should consult an attorney; there are a long list of issues here that need to be analyzed in detail. One thing to consider is whether the...

Yes, but make sure you drop a footnote telling people who owns the trademark. For example, if you use the logo for Chelsea or Manchester United or...

Can my long-distance piano student send me a picture of their song so I can follow along as I listen to them play it?

Depending on the amount copied (relative to the whole work) and the number of copies made, this is probably OK as long as you keep it on a small...

Are worldwide patents required for idea submissions to international companies (e.g., Sony, Samsung, etc)?

Your potential for exclusive rights in the U.S. should be attractive to global companies, even if you don't have patents pending in foreign...

Can I copyright a book that I created for the purpose of a school project? Do I need to include anyone else in it (teacher)?

Good news: You already hold the copyright! Copyright arises automatically when an original work is created (the legalese is "fixed in a tangible...

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How to protect an algorithm in a patent claim?

Hi, David. An algorithm, by itself, is generally not patentable subject matter. A patent claim reciting an algorithm must be either tied to a...