Patents vs. Copyrights
Most people have heard of patents, copyrights, and intellectual property. However, many are unsure of the legal distinctions between these types of ownership.
It is important to know the difference between patents and copyrights in case you want to secure the legal rights to an idea.
Some creative inventions require a patent lawyer. Other types of intellectual property necessitate a trademark attorney. A legal professional with experience in intellectual property law can help to ensure that your idea or invention is protected.
What is Intellectual Property?
The phrase “intellectual property” refers to any unique concept or idea that is potentially valuable. Some common examples include:
- An invention
- Original theoretical idea
- Works of fiction
- Original musical compositions
- And more
The owner of an invention or work of culture has the legal right to license, manufacture, or publish based on that concept or idea. Patents and copyrights are both ways to secure ownership over intellectual property.
Which Types of Intellectual Property Require a Patent Lawyer?
Patents are a type of property right. They are granted to patent holders through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Patents are intended to protect original inventions. The most common types of patents cover new utilities or designs.
Utilities include machines, material processes, or manufactures. Design patents protect ornamental or aesthetic designs related to objects.
If you own the patent on an invention, you can prohibit others from using it. In other words, you can stop other people from making, using, or profiting from your invention.
Patents only last for a limited amount of time. Exclusive rights to an invention last for 14 to 20 years, beginning on the date that the patent is granted. The length of a patent will depend on the type of intellectual property that it covers.
What is a Copyright?
Unlike patents, copyrights protect a person’s original works. Copyrights can apply to both published and unpublished works, such as:
- Literature
- Art
- Music
- Software
- Architecture
- And more
The holder of a copyright can prevent others from reproducing or profiting from their creation. In some instances, a design work can be covered by both copyright and a patent.
Copyright protection lasts for the remainder of the author’s life plus 70 years. This allows the author’s heirs to continue benefiting from their work.
The issues surrounding intellectual property law are complex. If you hope to secure the rights to your original work, consult with a patent attorney at your earliest convenience.
Take Action by Contacting an Experienced Intellectual Property Attorney in Los Angeles Today
It is incredibly important to protect your intellectual property; hence it is in your best interest to invest the time and resources to secure protection. Whether in the Copyright office or with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, you should retain the services of an experienced and knowledgeable intellectual property attorney in Los Angeles such as the professionals at the Omni Legal Group. Omni Legal Group is a premier Patent, Trademark, and Copyright law firm located in Los Angeles. For further information or to schedule a consultation please contact Omni Legal Group at 855.433.2226 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.