How long does copyright protection last?

Copyright protection length differs depending on several circumstances.

When the original work was created, published, or registered is one factor, while also taken under consideration is if the work was created by a single individual, multiple individuals, or under the direction of a company.

In the case of work created by an individual person, copyright protection begins immediately upon that works creation and lasts for 70 years after the creator’s death. For works created by multiple individuals, the 70 year protection takes effect after the last surviving creator’s death.

Works created under the direction of a company have two different protection plan possibilities. Copyright protection either lasts 95 years from the date the work is published or 120 years from the date the work was originally created, whichever is shorter.

For more information on intellectual property, please visit Patent, Trademark, Copyright Information.

The content of this article is not intended to be, and does not constitute, legal advice and does not create attorney-client privilege. Consult the attorney of your choice before embarking on any legal matter or any document preparation/filing.

Dr. Thomas R. (Terry) Williamson III is a Patent Attorney practicing in Atlanta, Georgia.

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