Weekly Copyright Update

October 2, 2015

Clear Teaching for Churches on Fair Use Doctrine

Attorney Brock Shinen offers a comprehensive teaching and training video about how the U.S. Copyright Law provision of the Fair Use doctrine may apply in practical uses for churches and ministries. Fair Use is a defense if you have been accused of copyright infringement. Mr. Shinen’s training video does not constitute legal counsel or advice, but he provides specific examples of how the doctrine applies.

What’s the Difference Between Artists’ Rights and Human Rights?

BY CHRIS CASTLE: The human rights of artists is a different concept from intellectual property rights, such as copyright. Intellectual property rights are created by national laws, and the human rights of artists are recognized as the fundamental rights of all persons by all of the central human rights documents to which hundreds of countries have agreed.

Protect Artists, Not Piracy. End Safe Harbors

Musicians, songwriters, filmmakers, authors & photographers have lost billions of dollars to online piracy due to a loophole in our existing copyright laws. Stop penalizing creators and close the loophole that has provided a ‘Safe Harbor’ for online piracy since 1998. This site is dedicate to the purpose of telling Congress to END SAFE HARBOR PROTECTION for those who profit from internet piracy.

Harry Fox Agency Downsizes after SESAC Acquisition

Up to 30% of staff at US mechanical rights firm the Harry Fox Agency will go, according to Billboard’s sources, following the company’s acquisition by performing rights organization SESAC. The downsizing is as a result of overlapping roles at the two music rights agencies, according to management at the merged entity. It is thought 20 employees departed last week, and 10 more will go after a transition period.

Here’s a Legal Primer for Journalists

BY JONATHAN PETERS: As a media law scholar and practicing media lawyer, I field all manner of questions every week—from students, journalists, editors, and others. Whether I’m speaking generally to a non-client or giving specific legal advice to a client, I’ve noticed that the questions fall into three broad categories: Can I use that? Can I say that? Can I do that?

About Christian Copyright Solutions: CCS’s quest is to help churches and Christian ministries “do music right.” CCS is an expert on church music copyrights and our primary focus is providing licensing and clear educational resources to churches, as well as representation, administration and advocacy for copyright owners. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only, and is not legal advice or a substitute for legal counsel.