Legal Question in Business Law in California

What are the rules for using quotes of old time famous authors on products for r

My home based business sells products that incorporate the quotes of famous authors from long ago. I'm hesitating to grow my business for fear that someone representing the author's estate or museum will file against me, claiming that I may not profit from words written over 50 years ago. The author I use the most dates to circa 1800. Do I need to worry about this or may I proceed? I would like to throw myself into this business without having to look over my shoulder. Thank you for your help.


Asked on 7/12/04, 6:52 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: What are the rules for using quotes of old time famous authors on products f

Congress keeps extending the copyright law for existing works, so for stuff written after about 1920 or so I would begin to wonder. But 1800 should be no problem. Search for "copyright law FAQ" for more.

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Answered on 7/12/04, 7:53 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: What are the rules for using quotes of old time famous authors on products f

copyright protects "for a term consisting of the life of the author and 70 years after the author's death" or "In the case of an anonymous work, ... the copyright endures for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication, or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first".

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Answered on 7/12/04, 8:37 pm


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