What is the difference between copyright and trademarks?

Copyright and trademarks are two distinct forms of intellectual property protection, with different purposes, legal requirements and scope of protection.

Copyright protects original works of authorship, such as literary, artistic, musical, or other creative works, including books, paintings, songs, software code, and more. Copyright gives the owner exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display their work.

Copyright is created when the work is created and fixed in a medium such as applying paint to a canvas. Copyright registration provides added protection.

Trademarks, on the other hand, protect distinctive signs or symbols that are used in connection with goods or services to distinguish them from those of others. Trademarks can include names, logos, slogans, and even sounds or colors. Trademark protection gives the owner the exclusive right to use their mark in commerce and prevent others from using a similar mark that could cause confusion among consumers.

Trademark protection requires registration with the trademark office in the relevant jurisdiction or a common law trademark protection as a result of use in the market place in the relevant jurisdiction.

Consider seeking legal advice to help you navigate the various forms of intellectual property to help you protect your ideas and business. A lawyer can help you understand your options and develop a strategy to protect your intellectual property.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation

Curated by Lomic Law and written by ChatGPT powered by OpenAI as part of Lomic Law's strategic use of technology to assist its clients.