What is the process for registering a copyright?

In Massachusetts, the process for registering a copyright is largely the same as it is elsewhere in the United States. First, the copyright owner needs to apply to the United States Copyright Office in Washington, D.C. to register the copyright. This application must include a non-refundable fee and a completed application form that includes the title of the work, details about the author, as well as an example of the work being protected. Once the application form is submitted, the Copyright Office will review the form and the work submitted and make a decision within 8 months. If the application is accepted, then the Copyright Office will issue a Certificate of Registration to the copyright owner, which will serve as proof of copyright protection. The copyright will last for 70 years after the death of the author for works associated with an individual. If the work was created by a corporation, then the copyright will last for 95 years after the work is published. It is important to remember that a copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself. A copyright will only protect against duplication of the exact expression, not any similar expressions of the same idea. Additionally, registering a copyright is not necessary to have copyright protection, but it is recommended in order to establish proof of ownership.

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What is the process for registering a copyright?

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