Quote
you can use the "jailhouse copyright." Just put all your lyrics and a cd in an envelope, seal it, and mail it to yourself by certified mail. When you get it, don't open it--just put it somewhere safe. If someone tries to rip off your music, you will have a postmarked piece of mail proving that it's your stuff.


Okay folks, it's time this myth died. Mailing your work to yourself in the USA does not constitute any kind of proof of copyright. It has not held up in a court of law. Why? Because you cannot prove you did not tamper with the contents of the envelope. You could have mailed yourself an empty envelope and put the contents in later, for example.

Why does posting something on line stand as some sort of proof? Because there is a date on the post. A date that says when it was posted or when it was edited.

If you're going be spending money on certified mail, spend a few more bucks and register your work properly. Bear mind, properly registered works also have an added advantage - if someone infringes on your copyright and it is proven in a court of law, the court costs will be paid AND you will receive $10,000 PER infringement.

Vikki Flawith: Songwriter/Composer, Singer/Voice Teacher

12Feb10- *NEW BLOG: "BE YOUR OWN GURU ;)"

MY STORY & MY MUSIC: http://www.vikkiflawith.com
Be a FAN: http://www.reverbnation.com/vikkiflawith