|
The articles in this section aim to provide writers, particularly new writers, with an insight into the world of fiction writing.
Motivation
Using proverb based themes for story ideas - Part One
Using proverb based themes for story ideas - Part Two
Backup Your Writing for Free Online
Plot: The Fiction Writer's Itinerary
Choosing and Describing a Perfect Setting
Characterisation
Learn to be quiet
Delving into your past
Regaining your writing confidence
Using inclusive language in writing
Copyright: Where To Find Information
Critiquing guidelines
Anti-Virus Tip for Writers
All Rights Remain With the Author: Fact or Fiction?
|
 |
You've heard about copyright, you understand what it's for, but what happens when you want to check a particular situation? Where do you go for answers?
Many countries have laws that provide protection for intellectual property ownership. USA for example has its 'Copyright Law of The United States of America (Title 17 of the United States Code)'. The U.S. Copyright Office provides an on-line version at its website.
Australia and Canada also provide copies of their copyright acts on-line.
To obtain copyright laws in other countries, contact the government departments responsible for intellectual property law. Some will have websites, for example United Kingdom's Patent Office. For those that don't however, you can obtain telephone and address details from the 'Directory of National Copyright Administrations' at the World Intellectual Property Office website.
Both the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Property and the Universal Copyright Convention offer protection for writers outside their own country; however this protection is limited. The World Intellectual Property Organisation provides on-line copies of these and other
conventions.
Most people find the legal jargon contained in copyright laws difficult to understand. For a fee, copyright lawyers and other qualified legal professionals can cut through the terminology to provide plain English interpretations. Some law firms provide free advice on minor copyright matters. Some governments fund community legal centres that provide free advice.
Individuals in the legal profession together with interested parties sometimes form organisations to promote copyright issues. In Australia for example, the Australian Copyright Council provides information sheets, publications, newsletters, public seminars and free legal advice.
These organisations also forward submissions to governments seeking amendments and improvements to copyright laws.
Reputable writers' organisations such as the Canadian Authors Association, the
American Society of Journalists and Authors and the Australian Society of Authors provide writers with sound advice on copyright issues by way of brochures, publications, newsletters, articles and other information.
Writers' organisations such as these seek advice from governments, the legal profession and non-government copyright organisations to provide accurate and up-to-date information to members.
The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America Inc. is one of the most popular stops on the Internet for copyright information. Inkspot and Writers Write also provide articles about copyright
issues.
Copyright information in articles, newsletters or non-government websites is often general in nature to provide an overview of important issues. Writers with specific copyright queries should check copyright laws and obtain legal advice to ensure their intellectual property remains protected.
© Justin O'Leary 1999
|
|
