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.

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