Writing a screenplay is a task that takes dedication, discipline, patience and a lot of time. For this reason it is very important for every writer to make sure their work is protected, so that no one can challenge the writing’s ownership. Registering the work with the Library of Congress is the step to take, but sometimes, due to varying reasons, one must employ the Poor Man’s Copyright.
Poor Man’s Copyright is based on the notion that a credible organization, like the Post Office, will time stamp the work effectively establishing a date of possession on your part. Traditionally, this is done by mailing a copy of the completed work to yourself and keeping the delivered package unopened, in safe storage in case a third party tries to claim ownership. The Post Office shipping date is the proof that the work was originally yours.
While this method is long in its history and has served many well, it has become frail in recent times. Thieves looking to steal your work can mail themselves an empty envelope and on a later date, place the stolen work. This is arguably one of the reasons this method might not hold up in court.
Luckily, its transition into the digital age has allowed the Poor Man’s Copyright concept to remain alive and well. In the digital realm, one could garner multiple timestamps, which will more relevantly protect your property. You could create a cryptographic hash function, which among other things creates digital signatures; you can then use the hash code as a reference when contacting any needed and highly trusted organizations and any replies will include both the date and hash code. Additionally, you can print out the code and mail it to yourself, putting yet another lock on the door, so to speak.
Usually the reason to use the Poor Man’s Copyright, is because the cost will be no more that a few stamps. But considering how much heavier a registration is in comparison, I think it is well worth the $35 fee. The Library of Congress registration can now be done online, allowing for electronic payments, faster processing times and among other things, online status tracking.
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