Quote:
Originally Posted by teh603
In the US (as opposed to Berne Convention signatories), you don't have full protection until you register, unless there's been some massive change to US copyright law in the last few years.
|
Quote:
Copyright Secured Automatically upon Creation
The way in which copyright protection is secured is frequently
misunderstood. No publication or registration or other action
in the Copyright Office is required to secure copyright.
|
Quote:
Notice was required under the 1976 Copyright Act. This
requirement was eliminated when the United States adhered
to the Berne Convention, effective March 1, 1989.
|
source -
http://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ1.pdf
From the FAQ -
Quote:
When is my work protected?
Your work is under copyright protection the moment it is created and fixed in a tangible form that it is perceptible either directly or with the aid of a machine or device.
|
Quote:
Why should I register my work if copyright protection is automatic?
Registration is recommended for a number of reasons. Many choose to register their works because they wish to have the facts of their copyright on the public record and have a certificate of registration. Registered works may be eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in successful litigation. Finally, if registration occurs within 5 years of publication, it is considered prima facie evidence in a court of law.
|
So the only thing registration does, is make it easier to prove in court.