Legal Question in Intellectual Property in New York

Re: Contract and copy right help needed asap

You need a "work for hire" agreement that states that you are the author of the work for copyright purposes. It's a simple agreement but one that should be drafted by an attorney familiar with these kinds of transactions. The agreement should include all the basic terms upon which you and the artist are agreeing and the drawings should be considered exhibits to the agreement as each is created. As to copyright, once each drawing is created you can file an application in the copyright office. Make sure that you cover each completed design as well as any drafts or other work created by the artist in creating each completed work. Our office does this kind of work on a consistent basis so feel free to call for an initial, complimentary consult.

Re: Contract and copy right help needed asap

You will need what is called a "work for hire" agreement. That Agreement will make clear that all rights, title and interest (including any and all copyright) shall belong to you the party that commissioned the work. You will also likely have a short form copyright assignment form for good measure. These two items will be signed by your designer. Once you have the copyright formally, the designer cannot copy or distribute the images without your express permission.

Secondly, with regard to copyrighting the images, you should do so immediately after the agreements are signed. The registration form will reflect that the images were created for you as a work for hire.

I hope that you found this useful.

Re: Contract and copy right help needed asap

You need a work for hire agreement and should immediately hire a lawyer to assist you with the agreement and with the filings. This area of law is our specialty; however, we would need some more information before making a complete and proper determination. You are welcome to contact us for a free consultation.

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