What is a derivative work?
A derivative work is a new creative work that is based on or derived from an existing work. In Virginia, copyright law states that any new work that takes an existing work and changes it in some way, such as by adding new material or making adaptations, is considered a derivative work. The creator of a derivative work is usually required to obtain permission from the original copyright owner in order to use any of the original material. Derivative works may also be subject to additional legal protections. For example, a derivative work based on an original work may be subject to additional moral rights, such as the right of the original author to be identified as the author of the work. Additionally, the original author may be entitled to compensation for their creative work.
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