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Comprehensive copyright registration services

Register a copyright to get the ultimate protection

At Dunlap, Bennett & Ludwig, we understand the value of your creative work. Whether you’re an author, artist, musician, filmmaker, or any other type of creator, protecting your intellectual property is essential.

Our copyright services are designed to give you peace of mind, knowing that your work is protected against unauthorized use. Here is what you need to know about the copyright registration process.

What is a copyright?

A copyright is a legal protection granted to the creators of original works, including literary, musical, artistic, and other intellectual works. If you have a copyright, you have exclusive rights to use and distribute your creation. As the copyright owner, you have the sole authority to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, or create derivative works based on your original creation.

Why should you register a copyright?

Copyright applies automatically as soon as your work is created and fixed in a tangible form, which means that you’ve written it down, recorded it, or saved it digitally. If you already have protection, you may be wondering why you need to register your copyright. Taking this extra step offers additional legal advantages that can be crucial in protecting your work.

Obtain official proof of ownership

  • Brand Recognition
  • Versatility

Registering your copyright establishes a public record of your ownership. This official documentation can be invaluable if your rights are ever challenged or if you need to prove ownership in legal proceedings.

Enhance legal protection

  • Visual Identity
  • Exclusive Rights
With a registered copyright, you can take legal action against anyone who infringes on your rights. Without registration, your options for enforcement are limited. Registered copyrights allow you to sue for statutory damages and attorney’s fees, which can be significantly higher than just recovering actual damages.

Prevent unauthorized use

  • Comprehensive Protection
  • Strong Brand Association
A registered copyright puts others on notice that your work is protected. This can deter potential infringers from using your work without permission and gives you the upper hand in enforcing your rights.

Secure your legacy

  • Comprehensive Protection
  • Strong Brand Association
Copyright protection lasts for the life of the creator plus an additional 70 years (or longer in some cases). Registering your copyright ensures that your work is protected for the duration, allowing you and your heirs to benefit from your creative efforts.

Get protection overseas

  • Comprehensive Protection
  • Strong Brand Association
If you plan to distribute your work internationally, registration in the U.S. can make it easier to enforce your rights abroad, particularly in countries that are members of international copyright treaties.

Frequently ASked Questions

What types of works can be copyrighted?
Copyright protection applies to a wide range of creative works, including but not limited to the following:
  • a. Books, articles, and other written works
  • b. Music and lyrics
  • c. Photographs and visual art
  • d. Films, videos, and multimedia productions
  • e. Software and computer programs
The timeline for copyright registration varies. Typically, it takes between 8 and 12 months to receive a Certificate of Registration from the U.S. Copyright Office.
Yes, you will need to submit a complete copy of your work. If your work has not yet been published, one copy is required. If it has been published, two copies are needed. Our team will guide you through the submission process and ensure everything is handled correctly.
If someone uses your work without permission, our legal team can help you take action. This may involve sending a cease-and-desist letter, negotiating a settlement, or pursuing litigation to enforce your rights. Registered copyrights give you stronger legal standing to seek damages.
You should file for copyright registration as soon as possible after your work is created and fixed in a tangible form. Early registration can provide stronger legal protection, particularly if you need to enforce your rights in court. It’s especially important to register before or within five years of publication to establish a public record of your ownership and ensure that your copyright is recognized as valid in legal disputes.
While it’s not mandatory to have a copyright attorney to file for copyright registration, having one can be beneficial. A copyright attorney can ensure that your application is correctly prepared, minimizing the risk of errors that could delay the process or jeopardize your claim. Experienced attorneys can also offer valuable legal advice on protecting your work, navigating complex copyright issues, and taking action if your rights are infringed. If your work is particularly valuable or if you anticipate potential legal challenges, working with an experienced copyright attorney can give you peace of mind and stronger legal protection.
Hear from our clients
Client Testimonials
It was a pleasure collaborating with Attorney Daniel Davis to get my copyright application processed...This was one less issue I had to resolve thanks to Mr. Davis, I could focus my attention on getting my work done.
Alithia B.
Alithia B.
Mr. Ludwig is a consummate professional with a wide breadth of knowledge into copyright law. I have a complicated case and Mr. Ludwig took time and care to help me understand my options. I absolutely would recommend him to anyone seeking legal advice.
jksymz75
jksymz75
Mr. Ludwig has a way of explaining copyright law that provides the average consumer with the tools necessary to make informed decisions... I value his advice and will contact him again, if the need arises.
Josephine34
Josephine34
Daniel J. Davis is an outstanding attorney with truly exceptional people skills. He actively listened to questions about copyrighting my lyrics...It was very apparent to me that he loves working with the public and helping people realize their dreams.
La-Verne P.
La-Verne P.
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Intern Program

As part of our effort to recruit, develop and retail the best and brightest attorneys, Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig offers a summer intern program for promising law school students who are looking to work as part of an innovative and incredibly successful team. With a global team of lawyers, selected candidates are able to work on high level projects in a collaborative space.

Paralegals and Legal Support Staff

At Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, our team of paralegals and staff work together collaboratively along side our attorneys toward a common goal. We have created a positive work environment where our paralegals and legal assistants work to successfully reach firm-wide goals and support each other to combine individual strengths to enhance team performance. They regularly assist our attorneys with organizing and maintaining files, conducting legal research, and preparing documents.