Web Linking
Q. I have an author web site, and link to many other author and publisher sites. In the past you’ve said there may be liability for this. Is this still true? A. As a general rule, you are not liable for linking to other sites. Obviously, without linking, there would be no World Wide Web. But as with all general rules, there are exceptions. Copyright infringement claims can be made when a...
Read MoreHow Will the New Tax Law Affect You?
While most of the new tax law – the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – has to do with reducing the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent, some provisions relate to individual taxpayers. Before we get into the details, be aware that almost everything listed below sunsets after 2025, with the tax structure reverting to its current form in 2026 unless Congress acts between now and then. The...
Read MoreMerchandising Rights
Merchandising rights are a frequently misunderstood (and often overlooked) part of publishing agreements. They are the right to market, sell, and license physical and tangible articles related to your copyright ownership, such as t-shirts, posters, action figures, games, etc. – even your book’s cover art. They are part of the cluster of “derivative” rights inherent in your copyright. It is...
Read MoreNondisclosure Agreements
Q. I have written a novel with a unique concept, and intend querying agents and publishers. I want to protect myself from the theft of my idea and my novel’s title. I’ve heard this can be accomplished by asking the agent or publisher for an “NDA.” What is that? A. Many new writers are under the impression that the “theft” of their ideas is a legitimate concern. Time for some myth busting:...
Read MoreTake These Three Steps When Your Child Turns 18
If your child has reached the teenage years, you may already feel as though you are losing control of her life. This is legally true once your child reaches the age of 18 because the state considers her to be an adult with the legal right to govern her own life. Up until your child reaches 18, you are absolutely entitled to access your child’s medical records and to make decisions regarding the...
Read More