Overview
Both trademarks and copyrights protect intellectual property, but they serve different purposes and protect different things.
What Copyright Protects
Copyright protects original creative works:
- Books and written content
- Music and sound recordings
- Photos and artwork
- Videos and films
- Software code
- Architectural designs
Duration: Life of author + 70 years (or 95-120 years for work-for-hire)
What Trademark Protects
Trademark protects brand identifiers:
- Business names
- Logos and symbols
- Slogans and taglines
- Product names
- Distinctive packaging (trade dress)
- Sounds and colors (in some cases)
Duration: Indefinite, as long as used in commerce and properly maintained
Key Differences
Purpose
| Copyright | Trademark |
|---|---|
| Prevents copying | Prevents consumer confusion |
| Applies to specific works | Applies to commercial use |
Registration
| Copyright | Trademark |
|---|---|
| Registration recommended | Registration strongly advised |
| One-time fee | Ongoing maintenance fees |
Enforcement
| Copyright | Trademark |
|---|---|
| Statutory damages available | Actual damages typically |
| Can sue after registration | Can sue without registration |
When You Need Both
Many businesses need both protections:
Example: A Logo
- <strong>Trademark</strong>: Protects use as a brand identifier
- <strong>Copyright</strong>: Protects the artistic design itself
Example: A Book
- <strong>Copyright</strong>: Protects the content
- <strong>Trademark</strong>: Protects the series name or brand
Example: Software
- <strong>Copyright</strong>: Protects the code
- <strong>Trademark</strong>: Protects the product name
Common Misconceptions
"I trademarked my blog post"
Blog posts are protected by copyright, not trademark.
"I copyrighted my business name"
Business names are protected by trademark, not copyright.
"Registration isn't necessary"
While automatic protection exists, registration provides crucial benefits for enforcement.
Protecting Your Brand
Best Practices
- <strong>Register your trademark</strong> in relevant classes
- <strong>Register copyrights</strong> for important works
- <strong>Use proper notices</strong> (© and ™ or ®)
- <strong>Monitor for infringement</strong> regularly
- <strong>Enforce consistently</strong> to maintain rights
- <strong>Document everything</strong> for potential disputes
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between copyright and trademark helps you protect all aspects of your intellectual property effectively.