Intellectual Property Basics

Start here if you're new to intellectual property. Learn all about copyrights, trademarks, patents, and more.

Trade name vs. business name: What's the difference?
A business can have both a legal or registered name as well as a trade name—but these have important differences and registration requirements that exist for the protection of you and your customers.
April 10, 2023 · 5 min read
How the COVID-19 vaccines could affect intellectual property rights
The development of the COVID-19 vaccine didn't necessarily alter the landscape of intellectual property rights, but it may have fostered a new spirit of innovation and cooperation.
April 6, 2023 · 2 min read
Top 5 accidental inventions & discoveries
From a vengeful chef who created a classic treat to a scientist whose moldy Petri dishes became a life-saving medication, some of today's best-known inventions were the result of accidental discoveries.
March 24, 2023 · 3 min read
Does your U.S. patent, trademark, or copyright protect you overseas?
Your intellectual property is protected here at home—but what about abroad?
March 23, 2023 · 2 min read
Royalties for cover songs
Performing cover songs can be a lucrative gig—especially if you're good. But if you haven't paid royalties or secured the rights to perform them, you could be in trouble.
March 23, 2023 · 3 min read
Estate plans and intellectual property: What to consider
Intellectual property is a valuable asset that often gets forgotten in the estate planning process.
March 23, 2023 · 4 min read
Social media's new intellectual property challenges
Sharing your photos online can be problematic—especially if you are hoping to retain your rights to credit and royalties. Photographer Daniel Morel learned this the hard way when his dramatic photos of the Haitian earthquake went viral—credited to someone else.
March 21, 2023 · 3 min read
Your startup's most valuable asset is its intellectual property
As a company grows and expands, its most valuable intellectual property may not reside in any of the specific technical features but rather in the brand that users associate with the service: the company's trademarks.
March 21, 2023 · 3 min read
The right of publicity: Whose right is it?
Yes, you may have the right to protect your name, image, and likeness, even if you're not famous. Or alive.
March 17, 2023 · 4 min read
Navigating Creative Commons licensing
Creative Commons licenses work in conjunction with copyright law to make the sharing and tweaking of original works easier. Which license works best for you? Read on.
February 13, 2023 · 4 min read