Get All Access for $5/mo

What Is the Easiest Way to Legally Protect My Business?

By Nina Kaufman

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

I need to launch the legal, IP protections and business filings for my tiny film and music publishing.

So wise to recognize that your energies are better spent creating your content than handling the details of protecting it. Leave the "protecting" to the professionals (attorneys).

You don't need to form an S Corporation or LLC to file for copyright protection--you can do that under your own name. However, without knowing what you've created and how you intend to use it, it's hard to say what your first steps should be and what would make financial sense.

A website alone won't protect your IP, nor will the book necessarily protect anything that's not contained in it. Your best step would be to consult with a local IP attorney. That way, you can develop a sound strategy, time frame and budget for protecting your creative work the right way.

Nina L. Kaufman, Esq. is an award-winning New York City attorney, edutainer and author. Under her Ask The Business Lawyer brand, she reaches thousands of entrepreneurs and small business owners with her legal services, professional speaking, information products, and LexAppeal weekly ezine. She also writes the Making It Legal blog.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business News

Is One Company to Blame for Soaring Rental Prices in the U.S.?

The FBI recently raided a major corporate landlord while investigating a rent price-fixing scheme. Here's what we know.

Side Hustle

This Former Starbucks Employee Started a Side Hustle That's Making More Than $70,000 a Month — and He's Not Done Yet

When Tom Saar moved to New York City, he spotted a lucrative business opportunity.

Devices

Stay Focused at Work with These $110 Beats Fit Pro Earbuds

Lock in with a great deal on earbuds with spatial audio and active noise cancellation.

Franchise

'Unpredictability in Various Forms' — How Franchisees Can Adapt and Protect Themselves From Election Year Uncertainty

Franchising can be both exciting and challenging, especially during times of unpredictability — like a U.S. presidential election year.

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business News

Amazon Has a Blank Book Problem: Buyers Report Receiving Fakes of Bestselling UFO Book

The book looked fine on the outside, but the inside was out-of-this-world.