Overview
Throughout history, new technologies have changed the way creators and users interact with copyrighted material. Copyright is part of the wider body of law known as intellectual property (IP) which refers broadly to the creations of the human mind. Copyright relates to literary and artistic creations, such as books, music, paintings and sculptures, films and technology-based works (such as computer programs and electronic databases).
Creating works using artificial intelligence has very important implications for copyright law and the rights of creators and owners. Things are likely to become yet more complex as use of artificial intelligence by artists becomes more widespread, and as the machines get better at producing creative works – further blurring the distinction between artwork that is made by a human and that made by a computer. In addition, the commercial impact of creative works across national borders – especially with the use of social media platforms – raises complex legal and technological uses.
Miller Thomson’s team has the ability to connect legal issues with technical and technological solutions to provide effective and practical service to clients who want to leverage their copyrights to boost the value of their company.
Whatever your specific legal needs, the common thread running through all of our business-oriented advice is our singular focus on alignment with your broader IP strategy and the overall objectives of your business.
- Copyright clearance: Our team advises on the rights and exceptions available under copyright law, helping you manage your infringement risk when making use of copyrighted work.
- Copyright protection: Miller Thomson’s copyright lawyers regularly advise on copyright registrations at the Canadian Intellectual Property Office and assist clients with their strategic planning for copyright protection.
- Copyright enforcement: When your creative works are threatened by infringers or trolls, our copyright professionals help you respond as effectively and efficiently as possible via an array of enforcement options, which include negotiation, demand letters and litigation, if necessary.
- Copyright transactions: As part of our work helping clients with the commercialization of their intangible assets, we also handle the copyright aspects of technology M&A transactions, as well as the drafting and negotiation of licensing, assignment and co-branding agreements for the use of copyright.
- Copyright across borders: In our digital world, it’s easier than ever for Canadian creative works to make an impact outside our national borders. Miller Thomson’s copyright team has access to a global network of legal and intellectual property firms who can provide the local knowledge and expertise you need for the development, protection and enforcement of copyright works around the world.
