Why Should I Register a Copyright?

Question: Why Should I Register a Copyright?

A copyright is a legal protection for creators of works. The creator of a work has protection from the moment it is published or "fixed in a tangible form." While you should put the copyright symbol on all your works, you do not need to register your copyright to be protected. But the U.S. Copyright Office and most attorneys will advise you to register your copyright. Here is why:

Answer:

Public Record
Many people wish to register their copyrights in order to have the work and the fact of its copyright in the public record.

Damages
If you take a copyright case to court, you are entitled to a greater amount of (statutory)damages, including court costs and attorney fees, rather than just compensatory damages for the actual amount of harm suffered.

Filing a Lawsuit
If you want to file a lawsuit and take someone to court for violating your copyright, you must have registered that copyright first. No registration=no lawsuit.

A work whose copyright is registered has a stronger case in court, and the owner can receive statutory damages rather than just compensatory damages. This means that the creator of a work has an easier time proving ownership of the copyright.

Prima Facie Evidence Works registered within 5 years of creation are considered prima facie evidence in court.

International Cases
Registration of a copyright also allows the copyright holder to register with U.S. Customs to prevent international violation of the copyright.

The copyright registration process is simple, fast, and inexpensive. Most works can be registered online. It is worth your time and money to register your copyrights for your creative works.