Unlike trademarks and patents, authorial copyright – referred to as diritto d’autore (“authors’ rights”) in Italy – does not require registration to apply, and thus for the work to be protected. However, it is essential to always retain proof of the creation of the work, otherwise both authorial ownership of the work, as well as the related, exclusive right to its economic exploitation, may be at risk.
Music, literature, design … there is no exhaustive list of genres of works to refer to, but it is always rather important to define a conscious legal protection strategy, in line with one’s own creative output.
In addition to offering consultancy and investigation services regarding effective "originality", we assist our clients in cases of plagiarism and authorial parasitism.
A well-written contract prevents disputes and it always helps you protect your business and your profits. The particular nature of the (intangible) goods that characterize the intellectual property sector has made us particularly skilled in drafting efficient contracts that can represent and defend the interests of our customers.
The best way to limit the damage of copyright infringement is to take decisive steps to avoid it occuring, through immediate action. We are experts litigators and are able to outline the ongoing risks to the designated Judge and obtain the orders that are required to bring an end the infringement in progress.
Sometimes being copied can be a "blessing". This is the case when you’re able to stop the offence immediately and obtain adequate compensation for the damage from the unauthorised user. Obviously, assistance from a qualified legal professional can have a big impact on the "wealth" and the effectiveness of the claim.
With regard to those works covered by authorial copyright (or “authors’ rights” – “diritto d’autore” in Italy), every day we manage clients’ relationships with the SIAE on their behalf. We are therefore used to taking care of the rights of the creators who turn to our firm, protecting their creations every day.