Before You Launch: What to Know Before Your Next Release
Before You Launch is a series exploring the legal considerations that arise before a project debuts. It covers the steps that writers, filmmakers, musicians, businesses and others can take to release their work with confidence.
Clearing rights and protecting material before release costs far less than dealing with a takedown, recall or lawsuit after publication. Although every launch raises unique issues, common considerations across various media include establishing ownership, securing necessary permissions and licenses, protecting copyrights and trademarks, providing proper attribution and negotiating contracts. Agreements, including website privacy policies and terms of use, can also determine which rights are retained or transferred.
Each installment in the series will examine these issues in the context of a particular type of launch, including film premieres, website deployments, new business ventures and music releases. Topics will include ownership, clearance of rights, fair use, copyright and trademark protection, licensing, and contract terms. These installments are only guidance, and are not substitutes for legal counsel.
Whatever you are preparing to launch, understanding the legal issues early can help you avoid costly complications and save time, money and stress down the road.