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| QUESTION: How long does copyright last? |
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The Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act, signed into law on October 27, 1998, amends the provisions concerning duration of copyright protection. Effective immediately, the terms of copyright are generally extended for an additional 20 years. Specific provisions are as follows: For works created after January 1, 1978, copyright protection endures for the life of the author, plus an additional 70 years. In the case of a joint work, the term lasts for 70 years after the last surviving author’s death. For anonymous and pseudonymous works and works made for hire, the term will be 95 years from the year of first publication or 120 years from the year of creation, whichever expires first. There are different terms for: (i) works created, but not published or
registered, before January 1, 1978; (ii) works created prior to January
1, 1978, yet still in their original or renewal term of copyright. If
these circumstances apply to your work, you may need to consult an attorney
or the U.S. Copyright Office for additional information. |
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