Know about copyright and its necessity for authors and writers

Novels, books, articles, any piece of literature, or even insightful writing, all have been important sources of recreation and information for mankind for centuries. Of course, with the advent of OTT services, we all have been addicted to digital entertainment. But, let’s not forget that the script, idea, and storylines of some of the major hits of the OTT content are the adaptation of some of the hit novels of authors who have created history through their talent of creating astounding stories. Their words and creation of unique characters have fascinated the human minds, and some of them have forever continued to entertain generation after generation, for example, the classic works of Shakespeare like Othello was beautifully transformed into a film Omkara. This is just one example of how written words can have a profound effect not just in a person’s lives but in many other areas.

As stated in the above paragraph, written words or the original piece of the artistic written work holds great importance for any society, and the writer, or author himself. Other than being an artistic work or a means of self-expression, this kind of work cannot just help the author or a writer gain fame, name, and also give incredible monetary rewards. Hence, when such is the significance of the original piece of writing or work, it is necessary to provide legal protection to such beautiful, literary, and compelling works of authors and writers. Hence, comes into light copyright Law.

Under section 13 of the Copyright Act 1957, copyright protection is conferred on literary works, dramatic works, musical works, artistic works, cinematograph films, and sound recording. For example, books, computer programs are protected under the Act as literary work. Through copyright registration, copyright protection is given throughout the lifetime of the author + sixty years from the beginning of the calendar year next following the year in which the author dies.

Also as per the definition on various platforms, Copyright refers to a bundle of exclusive rights vested in the owner of copyright by virtue of Section 14 of the Act. These rights can be exercised only by the owner of the copyright or by any other person who is duly licensed in this regard by the owner of the copyright. These rights include the right of adaptation, right of reproduction, right of publication, right to make translations, communication to the public, etc.

Copyright protection is significant for authors and writers to protect their creativity, encourage their talent, and help them freely create amazing work. When one protects their work through copyright registration, one can ensure that no one can duplicate their work on any medium without seeking their permission, giving them credit for their work, or benefiting through monetary rewards. And in case of copyright infringement, one can file a complaint and take legal actions with expert advice from copyright lawyers.

The various types of legal rights that come with copyright registration benefit the author or writer in numerous ways. Along with giving legal protection to one’s innate talent, the law makes sure that their unique creation becomes their asset and they can profit from it. Hence, copyright registration gives the author or writer the other rights like:

• Right to Reproduce Work
• Right to Adaptation and Translation of Work
• Right to Distribute Copies of Work or Commercial Rental
• Right of Public Performance
• Right to Broadcast Work

While it is imperative to protect the rights of the original creators of the work, both for the benefits of the society and the creator, there are certain exemptions where the law permits the use of the work, of course under certain conditions, without the permission of the copyright owners. Let us get a brief look at some of the exemptions-

• For the purpose of research or private study
• For criticism or review
• For reporting current events
• In connection with a judicial proceeding
• Performance by an amateur club or society if the performance is given to a non-paying audience, and,
• The making of sound recordings of literary, dramatic, or musical works under certain conditions

Along with all the above-mentioned rules, regulations & exemptions pertaining to the protection of copyright law, it is important to note that copyright law protects only the form of expression of ideas and not the ideas themselves.

At Parker & Parker Co. LLP, we are proud to have a team of experts where we provide copyright advice, protection, and strategy, both at the local and international levels. Be it any issue of the client like enforcing the client’s copyright or protecting them from infringement claims, our team boasts of decades of litigation experience in courts throughout the country. Hence, if you are an artistic soul creating wonderful work, consult the best copyright law firm to gain maximum benefit from your talent.