Copyright Symbol Explanation

After securing a copyright registration, the copyright symbol (©) becomes a tool at your disposal. This emblem is a direct declaration to the public that the work is shielded by copyright laws. Its presence can act as a deterrent, discouraging unauthorized replication or misuse of the creative piece.

Legal Rights Afforded to a Copyright Owner

Being a copyright owner furnishes you with a set of definitive legal rights, including:

• Claim of Authorship: You can assert and acknowledge your role as the creator of your published work.
• Reproduction and Storage: As the owner, you possess the right to reproduce the content in any tangible medium and store it electronically.
• Publication Control: You hold the discretion to decide when, where, and how to publish or withhold your work from publication.
• Public Display and Communication: You are entitled to showcase or share your work with the public. Additionally, you have the prerogative to make translations or adaptations of the original content.
• Reputation Protection: Should there be a threat to your professional standing or reputation via your work, you have the right to intervene and take protective measures.
• Licensing or Transfer: You can opt to sell or lease your Copyright, allowing others specified rights to your work as outlined in the agreement.

These rights equip copyright owners with the tools to oversee, defend, and exercise control over their creative contributions and intellectual assets.

Duration of Copyright Protection

After registering a work under Copyright, the protection generally lasts for the duration of the creator’s life and then extends for an additional 60 years after their demise. This prolonged period guarantees that the work stays protected, allowing the creator’s heirs or designated rights holders to benefit from it for an extended time.

Conditions for Filing a Copyright Application

When applying for copyright registration, ensure you adhere to the following format and size guidelines for different works:

• Artistic Works: Upload in either PDF or JPG format.
• Sound Recording Works: Submit in MP3 format.
• Literary/Dramatic, Music, and Software Works: Upload documents in PDF format, ensuring the file size doesn’t exceed 10 MB.
  • For Software: Submit a PDF that includes at least the initial ten and the concluding ten pages of the source code. If the source code has fewer than 20 pages, upload the complete code. Ensure there are no redacted or obscured sections.

Procedure for Obtaining Copyright Registration

To secure copyright registration, follow the systematic procedure outlined below:

Submission of Application

Draft an application that includes all required details and a statement of particulars using the designated format (FORM XIV). Remember, individual works require separate applications. Each application must be signed by both the applicant and an Advocate who holds a Vakalatnama or a Power of Attorney (POA).

Issuance of Diary Number

Upon application receipt, the registrar assigns a Diary Number, signifying the commencement of the registration process. Thereafter, a 30-day waiting period is observed to allow for any potential objections.

Handling of Copyright Objections

Should no objections arise within the 30-day window, a scrutinizer evaluates the application for inconsistencies. If deemed satisfactory, the scrutinizer proceeds with registration and provides the registrar an extract for the Register of Copyright.

Resolution of Objections

If objections emerge, both involved parties will receive a notification detailing the objections. A subsequent hearing will be convened to address and resolve these concerns.

Application Scrutiny

Post-hearing, if needed, the scrutinizer conducts a thorough examination of the application. Depending on the findings, the application may be endorsed or declined.

Issuance of Copyright Registration Certificate

On application approval, the corresponding authority dispenses the copyright registration certificate. Typically, the entire procedure concludes in around 2 to 3 months.

How ASK Associates Can Assist You?

At ASK Associates, we’re dedicated to streamlining the often complex journey of copyright registration in India. Our team, comprising experts, provides comprehensive support, ensuring that each step, from initial documentation to handling potential objections and obtaining the final copyright certificate, is managed with precision and expertise. Whether you are a budding creator or an established intellectual property owner, with ASK Associates by your side, you can navigate the copyright registration process with confidence and ease.

Ready to secure your creative work? Get started with our expert-led copyright registration services today!