Is it illegal to download, via torrent (blocking uploading), a video that you own, with proof of purchase, for backup purposes?

No, that is an illegal method of copying. You do intend to violate IP rights if you do this. This is not a legal way to make illegal copies. Only...

Would I experience legal issues if I took a product, revamped it, and sold it for a profit?

Interesting business idea. Poses many problems. my colleague has listed five key ones. Not sure that your concept is viable since the Nintendo DS...

If I record from a present day CD onto a blank tape, then give the CD away (donate it to charity), can I legally keep the tape?

Legally you need to erase the tape. There is not need to destroy the tape, erasing it is fine. You should neither keep the copy post sale nor sell...

You are right to ask. You should not do as your competitors do. They are taking a legal risk by carelessly committing copyright infringement if...

Is it OK to re-publish a deceased author's self-published, copyrighted book with just his verbal OK from 20 years ago?

See http://copyright.cornell.edu/resources/publicdomain.cfm The second book appears to be public domain if published prior to 1978 without...

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Could I legally place a design on a pair of brand name clothing and sell them online using my design name?

You want to sell modified brand name product, leaving the brand name and adding your brand name. This is a more complex issue than you might...

So you wonder if taking well known public domain images like a snake or palmetto and combining them in a logo would be legal. Of course, provided...

Let's say I get sued for using embedding a youtube video or linking to an article. My site is commercial. How much can I lose?

For sure you can be made to pay lots more than $20. If the item is registered, $750 per infringement minimum and a whopping $150,000 if the Judge...

One of a kind personal items not for use in commerce do not give rise to a claim for trademark infringement. 15 USC 1114...

Can I change the shape, colors, and message of the Disney logo without getting into trouble?

Unlikely, unless you do it with assistance of an IP attorney who knows copyright and trademark law. There is a right of trademark infringement...