Copyrighting a Screenplay?
Find answers to your legal question.
Copyrighting a Screenplay?
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I have written a film screenplay and plan on using it for an indy feature, how can I register it as my script so I can legally type "All Rights Reserved" or "©" on it?
Additional Details
This is British, the Writers Guild of America isn't really going to help me here
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John T
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Copyright is automatic on all artistic works.
If you want to you can waste money and "register" it with one of the scam registration companies ((I say "scam" as in the UK it is NOT necessary to register it), or just send it (copy) to yourself by recorded delivery and don't open the package, then if there is any dispute you have proof of the original. |
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⌡MacâŒ
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In the United States copyright registration for screenplays is handled through The Writer's Guild of America.
Below are links to WGA East (New York) and WGA West (Hollywood).
edit
I advocate following Mike's advice on the "Poor-Man's copyright". The Library of Congress is in charge of the registration of copyright for most things, but not for screenplays: by law this is handled by the WGA.
Edit
Sorry, I failed to note that your user name and Yahoo! flag are decidedly Scottish. I will star this so if any of my contacts have knowledge on British Copyright law they will know of your question.
Edit
Shouldn't Yahoo!Scotland use the Scot's flag rather than the Union Jack? |
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Information Police
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You can just declare it copyrighted and put those things on it. But in case of a conflict in the future it is best to register it with the US Copyright office.
Just fill out an application and send it in. I think the fee is $40. I helped my wife do it. It's pretty easy.
EDIT: It looks like the fee is now $45 but only $35 if you file it online! |
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Mike
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A cheap way to prove it is mail it to yourself registered and tracked mail where you have to sign for it. Don't open it unless you have to take it to court. Only then do you open it there. It's evidence. |
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