LegalCorner- Frequently Asked Questions

-List Your Site Here! -- Targeted Advertising For Just Pennies A Day!

-Tell A Friend

- Bookmark This Page

LegalCorner^TM - Copyright F.A.Q.'s

Find A Lawyer

Law Area:

State:

Search

--Back

Q.What is a Deriivative Work?

A.A derivative work is a work that is based on, or incorporates, one or more already preexisting original works of authorship. For example, a multi-media work would be a derivative work if it used preexisting original copyrighted elements. Similarly, a screenplay adapted from book woiuld be a derivative work.

For a derivative work to be copyrightable, the derivative work must contain enough elements of originality (new material) to qualify as a new work. The copyright holder in a derivative work will only obtain a copyright interest in the new original contribution, not the underlying, preexisting elements (which must be identified on the copyright application).

It is very important to note that only the copyright owner of the underlying work, or one who has been granted permission (written license) from the original copyright owner, may prepare derivative works. Unauthorized derivative works violate the original copyright holder's exclusive rights under the copyright act.

copyright, copyright law, copyrights, register a copyright, copyright registration, information on copyright, copyright information

© Copyright 1999-2025 Melissa C. Marsh. All Rights Reserved. All Information on this website is subject to a Disclaimer and Use Agreement. This information is provided as general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. We advise you to seek the advice of competent legal counsel to address your own specific questions, facts and circumstances.