How to Register a Copyright in New Hampshire?

Introduction

Copyright registration is an essential step in protecting your creative work. Whether you are an artist, musician, author, or photographer, registering your work with the United States Copyright Office is a crucial step in safeguarding your rights. In this article, we will discuss the process of registering a copyright in New Hampshire in-depth, including the necessary steps and requirements.

Check Eligibility

It is essential to ascertain whether your work qualifies for copyright protection before registering it with the Copyright Office. The Copyright Office states that "original works of authorship fixed in any physical medium of expression" are covered under copyright protection. This comprises sound recordings, architectural works, pantomimes, theatrical works, musical works, literary works, musical compositions, dramatic performances, pantomimes, and choreographic works. You can also register a copyright for a "compilation," which is a piece of work created by gathering and assembling previous information that has been chosen, coordinated, or structured such that the final product functions as an original piece of writing.

Prepare Your Application

Once you have confirmed that your work is eligible for copyright protection, you will need to prepare your application. The application process includes filling out the appropriate forms and submitting them to the Copyright Office, along with any necessary documentation and fees. The forms you will need to complete will depend on the type of work you are registering, as well as the type of registration you are seeking. For example, if you are registering a literary work, you will need to fill out form TX, and if you are registering a sound recording, you will need to fill out form SR. You can find the appropriate forms on the Copyright Office website. It's also important to note that you can also apply for a copyright registration online through the eCO (Electronic Copyright Office) system on the Copyright Office website.

Submit Your Application and Fees

After you have completed the necessary forms and gathered the required documentation, you will need to submit your application and fees to the Copyright Office. The fees for registering a copyright can vary depending on the type of work and the type of registration you are seeking. You can find the current fees on the Copyright Office website. It's also worth noting that if you are applying online through eCO, you will be able to pay your fee online, otherwise, you will need to pay by check or money order.

Wait for Registration

After you have submitted your application and fees, you will need to wait for your copyright to be registered. The process can take several months, and the Copyright Office will notify you when your registration is complete. You can also check the status of your application online through the eCO system or by calling the Copyright Office.

Enforce Your Copyright

Once your copyright is registered, it is important to enforce it. This means taking steps to protect your work from infringement, such as sending cease and desist letters or filing lawsuits against those who have violated your rights. It's also important to note that having your work registered with the Copyright Office can also be used as evidence in a court of law. Additionally, it's worth noting that registering your copyright within three months of the first publication of your work or before an infringement occurs can also make you eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in a successful lawsuit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering a copyright in New Hampshire is a necessary step in protecting your creative work. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that you are able to take legal action if your work is infringed upon. It is important to remember that the process can take several months, so it's best to start the process as soon as possible. Additionally, it's worth noting that even if your work is registered with the Copyright Office, it's still your responsibility to enforce your rights and protect your work from infringement. This may include sending cease and desist letters or filing lawsuits against those who have violated your rights. Overall, registering a copyright in New Hampshire is a crucial step in protecting your creative work and ensuring that you are able to take legal action if necessary.