What is design protection?

Design protection is a form of intellectual property law in California that shields the creators of unique designs and products from derivative works or imitations. It helps protect the original work from any form of unauthorized use or replication by competitors. Design protection applies to both two-dimensional and three-dimensional designs, including product packaging, graphic designs, furniture, and architecture. In California, design protection is achieved through registered trademarks, copyright registration, and design patents, depending on the type of design. A trademark is a word, phrase, or symbol that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods from those of others. Copyright registration protects works of art, fashion, photographs, and architecture that have an element of creativity. Design patents protect the ornamental design of a functional item. Design protection is important for businesses who have unique products that could be replicated by competitors, or have creative works that they would like to protect from unauthorized use. It is also important for designers that have invested time and money into creating something unique, as design protection grants them exclusive rights to their work.

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