Protecting your original work isn’t just important—it’s essential. Whether you're an artist, author, musician, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur, copyright law helps safeguard the value of your intellectual property.
As an experienced copyright attorney in Los Angeles, I help clients with copyright registration, licensing, sales, and infringement issues. From visual art to written works, sound recordings, and digital media, I make sure your creative rights are protected.
Copyright is a legal protection granted to the creators of original works — from books and music to films, software, and visual art. It gives you exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and license your work.
Copyright exists the moment your original work is fixed in a tangible medium (like paper, canvas, audio, or video). But to enforce your rights in court — or unlock key benefits — you may want to register your copyright.
For works created on or after January 1, 1978, protection lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. Older works may have different durations of copyright protection.
Copyright covers a wide range of creative and intellectual property, including:
While protection exists automatically, registration with the U.S. Copyright Office unlocks major advantages:
Registration is especially important if you're selling or publishing your work publicly.
A registered copyright grants the creator exclusive rights to:
These rights can be monetized, licensed, or enforced through legal action when necessary.
While protection exists automatically, registration with the U.S. Copyright Office unlocks major advantages:
Need both? Many creators benefit from protecting their content with copyright and their brand with a trademark. I can help you determine what’s right for you.
You can register your copyright online or by mail. I offer full-service filing and strategic guidance for:
Want to do it yourself? I can guide you through the process so you feel confident every step of the way.
Learn more about how proposed legislation can impact your rights as an artist. Read my article on copyright law for visual artists, published in the Los Angeles Daily Journal.
Your creative work deserves protection. Let’s be sure you are well-protected. Reach out to discuss your copyright needs today!
Looking for a Los Angeles attorney who understands your creative business? Melissa K. Dagodag provides trademark, contract, entertainment and business law services for entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators.
©2025 Melissa K. Dagodag | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Disclaimer