Whether you dabble in creative works on the side or you are a creator for a living, such as a photographer by profession, you most likely have your works copyrighted. Unfortunately, it’s not entirely uncommon for those with bad intentions to steal copyrighted works. Though it may seem brazen, it happens all the time. If your copyrighted work has been stolen, our legal team is here to help. Contact the Michigan copyright lawyers from CopyCat Legal today to learn more about what we can do for you.
How Important is it to Have My Work Copyrighted?
Though it is true that original work is technically copyrighted from the moment of its inception, having a formal copyright is just as important. Not only will this make it easier to file and prove a copyright infringement claim, but it will also ensure you can receive statutory damages for the infringement, which is the most straightforward way to get compensated in these cases. CopyCat Legal helps clients protect the following types of copyrighted work:
What Can I Do if My Work Was Stolen?
If you believe your copyrighted work has been stolen, the first thing you should do is document who has stolen your work and its current location. For example, if you wrote, recorded, copyrighted, and released an original song, you should document the band or individual who stole your song, as well as the song title itself. If possible, you should also document the dates of your releases, as this can help prove which version came first.
From here, you should strongly consider retaining the services of seasoned Michigan copyright lawyers who can file a copyright infringement claim on your behalf. CopyCat Legal has extensive experience filing these claims on behalf of our clients, and we’re prepared to put that experience to work in your case as well.
When Should I File a Copyright Infringement Claim in Michigan?
The statute of limitations for copyright infringement lawsuits (in most cases) is three years. This means anyone who suspects their copyright has been infringed upon is required, by law, to file their claim within three years of the date they discovered the infringement. Waiting longer than three years can, unfortunately, result in the statute of limitations expiring, barring a person from filing such a claim altogether.
Contact Our Michigan Copyright Firm
CopyCat Legal is a staunch defender of creative minds across the United States. If your work has been stolen, we are here to fight to get it back. Contact us today.