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Intellectual property is divided into two
categories, copyrights and industrial property.
Copyrights give the authors of an
exclusive work, exclusive rights to that work for a limited amount of
time. Copyrights cover such literary and artistic works as novels,
poems, plays, films, songs and other musical works, artistic works
(drawings, paintings, sculptures and photographs) and architectural
designs. Copyrights, which must be renewed periodically, allow the
creators of a piece of work, the opportunity to benefit from that piece
of work.
Industrial property includes patents,
trademarks, industrial designs and geographic indications of source.
Patents give the inventors of a new
product, a certain (limited) amount of time in which he/she may prevent
others from making, selling or using the invention without
authorization.
A trademark is an intellectual property
protection which is used to protect the distinctive features that
distinguish one product from another. Those features can include such
things as: symbols, colours, brands, names, sounds, smells, shapes, and
signs.
Fortunately, Intellectual property laws
benefit the creator of a property, by rewarding that creator for his/her
innovation and creativity. Also, society as a whole benefits from
intellectual property laws, by the fact, that these laws encourage
creativity, therefore allowing the rest of us to benefit from the wide
range of products and services that are produced.
Any violation of a trademark, patent or
copyright could constitute the grounds for an intellectual property
lawsuit. If you feel that you have been victimized it would be wise to
consult a qualified attorney in your area. Find an attorney or law firm,
which specializes in intellectual property law. Know your rights and
protect them accordingly. |
