Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Massachusetts

Copyright relating to quotes from a magazine

I've launched a small business, and on my website, I'd like to use a quote from a magazine, Fast Company, written by author Tom Peters. The use of this quote doesn't endorse any product, just a philosophy of his that our firm shares.

Nevertheless, what is the legality of this? What citations might I need to make? Is there a limit on length?

I've also found other quotes on the with named attributions, but no further information about these people. Can I use those?

Thank you!


Asked on 2/28/02, 6:57 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Barbara C. Johnson Law Office of Barbara C. Johnson

Re: Copyright relating to quotes from a magazine

Step 1: Write Tom Peters and ask his permission to quote him.

Step 2: Include your intention to give proper attribution and a link to his magazine.

In any case, the FAIR USE doctrine is there, but there is no reason you cannot be forthright and ask him for his permission.

He will probably be delighted to have another link to his magazine.

Read more
Answered on 2/28/02, 7:19 pm
Bruce Burdick Burdick Law Firm

Re: Copyright relating to quotes from a magazine

Two copyright proverbs:

Short or abort (keep it one sentence and you probably do not have to eliminate it)

Credit or edit (give attribution or change the wording to your own).

Those are only generalisms, but they seem to fit your situation.

Read more
Answered on 2/28/02, 7:39 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Intellectual Property questions and answers in Massachusetts