Legal Question in Business Law in California

I am building a website to teach music production with Logic Pro X. I want to have a webpage that has a list of definitions. I have found some definitions in different places and have questions on whether I can use them, and if so, how.

1. If I find a definition in a copyrighted book, does that mean I cannot use the exact definition?

2. What if I site it?

3. I know that fact cannot be copyrighted but the expression of it can. Does that mean I need to reword it if I want to use it?

4. If I quote a resource (like Wikipedia) that has a Creative Commons license, I can quote it word for word and just site it, correct?


Asked on 2/10/15, 8:57 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Frank Natoli Natoli-Legal, LLC

Ultimately, it depends on what and how much you are using. Of course, the meaning of certain words are facts just like a recipe is a fact. But a recipe book is certainly protected under copyright law. That is, the expression of those facts are the creative content that is the subject of copyright protection.

Before you make any investment here, it is probably a good idea to consult with IP counsel so no guessing is necessary.

If you would like to discuss further over a free phone consult, feel free to contact me anytime that is convenient.

Our firm is now referred by the American Bar Association (see under the New York section):

http://www.americanbar.org/groups/delivery_legal_services/resources/programs_to_help_those_with_moderate_income.html

Kind regards,

Frank

www.LanternLegal.com

866-871-8655

[email protected]

DISCLAIMER: this is not intended to be specific legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No attorney-client relationship is formed on the basis of this posting.

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Answered on 2/10/15, 9:23 am


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