Work for Hire

If, within the scope of his or her employment, an employee creates a copyrightable work, the employer is deemed the owner of the copyright. If, however, the creator of the work is an independent contractor or if the work is commissioned, the copyright will belong to the creator of the work. If you are hiring another to create a work of potentially copyrightable subject matter on your behalf, it is critical that you discuss ownership issues with counsel skilled in copyright matters.