How long do copyrights last?

In Virginia, copyrights last a lifetime plus an additional 70 years. This means that any original creations made in Virginia are protected by copyright law, and anyone who uses, copies, or distributes them without express permission of the creator can be sued for infringement. Copyright law in Virginia is based on the federal Copyright Act of 1976. The duration of copyrights depends on when the work was created. If it was created before 1978, the copyright lasts 95 years after the work was first published. For works created after 1978, the copyright lasts until 70 years after the creator’s death. This term is extended to corporate entities and trusts if the copyright is owned by a business or estate. Although copyright laws are long-term protection for creators, they are limited. Copyright law does not protect ideas, titles, concepts, procedures, or processes. It only protects the actual expression of the work itself, such as books, paintings, plays, and music. Creators should also be aware that registering their works with the U.S. Copyright Office may be necessary to fully take advantage of their legal protections. Although not required for protection, it provides extra benefits, such as the ability to sue for damages if infringement is found.

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