Legal Question in Technology Law in California
quoting newspaper articles
I think this comes under copyright law, but I couldn't find it under the law categories.
Can I post a synopsis of a news article on a message board along with a link to the article without being in violation of copyright law?
Can I translate small parts (a few sentences) of articles in Spanish and post them on a message board?
I'd like to keep my posts in compliance with the law, but I'm more confused than ever after reading some of the questions and answers here. Thanks in advance.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: quoting newspaper articles
"Fair Use" under copyright law is a complex matter, and although your question suggests that what you have in mind *might* qualify, it's really not possible to tell without knowing all the details and seeing the material you're talking about.
Re: quoting newspaper articles
The topic heading would be "intellectual property" - the category that covers trade secrets, patents, trademarks and copyrights.
I agree with Mr. Firemark, and I would add that there is a strong correlation between the likelihood of being sued and the amount of financial loss the copyright owner suffers or fears it will suffer. If what you do isn't costing anyone any sales, and doesn't threaten to, the likelihood of a suit is very small; at most you might get a cease-and-desist letter. Lawsuits are filed when you're hitting 'em in the pocketbook. Or occasionally just because they're ornery.
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