It’s the End of Google v. Oracle (And I Think I Feel Fine)
The Supreme Court's long-awaited decision finds that Google's copying of Oracle's Java API was fair use. Should creators of more traditional content be concerned?
Warhol’s “Prince Series” Isn’t Fair Use, But What Is?
In a retreat from its Cariou decision, the Second Circuit finds that Andy Warhol's use of a Lynn Goldsmith photo of the pop icon Prince isn't transformative. But lots of questions remain.
Sofia Vergara Defaults, Ordered to Pay $750 for Instagram Infringement
After failing to defend a copyright lawsuit against her, the actress is ordered to pay only minimum statutory damages. Did Vergara just get lucky, or is default a smart litigation strategy?
No Copyright Claim in Song Based on Unfixed Phone Conversation
Sony Music has prevailed in a copyright infringement case over R. Kelly’s “Love Letter” because the plaintiff’s song was not fixed in a tangible medium of expression.
Taylor Swift Prevails in Copyright Case—For the Fifth Time
A judge has dismissed the latest in a string of copyright infringement lawsuits over the lyrics to the Taylor Swift hit "Shake it Off."
No Fair Use Defense for Dr. Seuss/Star Trek Mashup
The Ninth Circuit's fair use ruling is an early Christmas present for copyright owners and a lump of coal for creators of unauthorized mash-ups that don't ridicule the original works.
Court Awards $122K in Attorneys’ Fees to Nonprofit Swim Team After Copyright Win
The Court finds that "leveling exorbitant settlement demands at nonprofits and public schools does not advance the purposes of the Copyright Act" after the plaintiff demanded $25,000 for a single Twitter post to a community swim account followed by 44 people.
Copyright Termination and Loan-Out Corporations, Revisited
How a common entertainment industry tax planning tool may prevent artists and their heirs from utilizing the Copyright Act’s termination provision.
Tattoo Feud: Artist’s Copyright Case (Inexplicably) Sent to Trial
In a decision with frightening implications, a court in Illinois holds that a jury will decide whether Randy Orton's tattoo artist can control the use of the wrestler’s image in video games.
Court Allows Copyright Case Against Hidden Camera Prank Show to Proceed
A judge rules on a motion to dismiss copyright infringement claims brought by the co-creator of "Scare Tactics" against his former business partner and the producer of "Prank Encounters," another hidden camera prank/scare show.