Having control over reproduction some work for commercial purpose is called copyright. All graphic designers and people who are planning to work with a graphic designer Chicago should know few copyright laws.

What cannot be copyrighted?

Following intangible assets cannot be copyrighted. If a designer says he has copyright over any of the following assets, then you are dealing with a phony.

a) Title and names

b) Charts for measurements and calendars

c) Symbols and slogans

d) Lettering and color variation

Many of the above said assets can be protected by trademarks. The difference between copyrights and trademark is that, the product controlled under copyright cannot be used for commercial purpose but a trademark is an identification of a brand with a symbol or sign or name. Like, the big yellow ‘M’ in McDonald’s. One cannot use it in a design or work unless you are not doing business with the same name.

Registration for copyright

A graphic designer Chicago needs to register for copyrights to be able to sue a party, for using their work. Using the copyright symbol alone is not enough to sue for damage. Notice has to be given with the work to legally sue the other part.

Infringement

When a person uses a substantial part of your design, it is called infringement. It can be sued only when the part used from the design is the substance that made your design unique.

Original work

A graphic designer Chicago need not work a design from the beginning to call it an original work. Making the Pepsi logo in pink and violet and adding more curves to it will make it an original work.

How to sue?

a) In case of no registering the work, the original documents, dates and publishes with witnesses are required to show that the original work is yours.

b) You need to show the connection between your work with the other party’s work, to seek compensation.

c) In case of not registering, if the other party claims and proves to have designed it without the knowledge of your work, then the copyright will be shared by both the parties and no damaged can be claimed.

d) If you prove them guilty and file for an injunction to prevent from further reproducing the design, you can claim the compensation for the work used.

Duration of the copyright

Copyright for a work will last for 50 years after the death of the person. In the USA, it is protected for 70 years, after death.

Who owns the copyright?

The graphic designer Chicago who designs it, will own the rights. However, if he creates it for an employer, both will have rights, over the design. Some companies get into a contract with the graphic designer Chicago not to claim rights over the design output.

No matter whether you are a client or a graphic designer Chicago, it is important to know the copyright laws. It will help to be alert and not fall into any illegal trap. Remember, stealing something can never be quoted as an art; it should be natural.