What is the difference between a copyright and a trademark?

Copyright and trademark are both forms of intellectual property law that protect creators and owners from having their ideas, products, and designs copied without proper attribution or authorization. Copyright applies to creative works, such as books, songs, and paintings. It provides exclusive rights to the creator, allowing them to reproduce, distribute, and modify their work. Copyright lasts for a set period of time, usually the life of the creator plus 70 years. Trademark law applies to a variety of things, including words, names, symbols, and slogans. It grants exclusive rights to the owner to use the trademarked item in a specific market or industry. Unlike copyright, trademarks can be renewed indefinitely as long as they continue to be used in the marketplace. Both copyright and trademark law are essential in protecting creations and original ideas. Copyright law ensures that creators can make money from their works and receive due credit. Trademark law is vital for businesses that want to protect their brand identity and prevent unauthorized use of their names, symbols, or slogans. In Wisconsin, both copyright and trademark are also protected under state law, in addition to the federal laws.

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