copyrights
Definition
A copyright is a legal protection that gives the creator of an original work the exclusive right to use, copy, sell, and distribute that work. This covers things like written content, photos, logos, music, videos, software, and artwork, and the protection kicks in automatically the moment you create something original. Nobody else can legally use your copyrighted work without your permission.
Example
If you hire a freelance photographer to shoot product photos for your website, those photos are automatically owned by the photographer unless you have a written agreement that transfers the copyright to you.
Watch Out
Many small business owners assume they own content they paid someone to create, but without a written contract specifically transferring the copyright, the creator legally owns it.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.