Can copyright law protect me from someone using my artwork without permission?
Yes, copyright law can protect you from someone using your artwork without permission. In Nebraska, the federal Copyright Act protects original works of authorship, including visual artworks such as paintings, drawings, or photographs. This means that as soon as you create or “fix” your work in a tangible medium such as on paper or in a digital file, the work is legally protected by copyright law. Copyright law grants you exclusive rights over your work. This means that you have the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, and display your work. Other people cannot use your work without your permission. If they do, then you have the right to take legal action against them. Fortunately, there are other ways you can protect your artwork. One way is to register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office. This gives you added protection and allows you to file a lawsuit in federal court if someone does use your work without permission. You can also use a "copyright notice" or a "copyright symbol" on your work. This can inform people that the work is protected by copyright law, even if it is not registered with the Copyright Office. The best way to protect your artwork is to be aware of your rights under the Copyright Act and to take steps to protect your work. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to consult a lawyer who is familiar with copyright law.
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