Copyright infringement is not an easy thing to explain. While it may seem as simple as not using someone else's work, it's not that easy. Thanks to the Electronic Frontier Foundation and many other organizations, we have the ability to use the work of others, as long as we use it in accordance with fair use laws. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay So, what does fair use have to do with copyright infringement, and how can you use it? Fair use laws are the conditions under which you can use a copyrighted work without having to pay royalties to someone. This includes using a copyrighted work for educational or instructional uses, criticism of the work, commentary on the work, news about the work, teaching of the work (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship uses of study and research. This is covered extensively in Section 107 of the Copyright Code (commonly called Fair Use) and is available to read at your local library. Copyright Infringement in Everyday Life Sometimes, if you are writing an article for work or school, or if you are creating a Power Point presentation, you have to use someone's work that is already protected by copyright. So how can you use it without committing copyright infringement? All you have to do is ask: the worst they can say is no, right? But, if they say no, there are several public domain items that could help you complete your project without having to commit copyright infringement. What is public domain and how does it relate to copyright infringement? Material not protected by copyright is considered to be in the public domain: it is not possible to commit copyright infringements on works in the public domain. These works include things on which copyright has expired or is not protected by copyright, such as government publications, jokes, titles, and ideas. So, how can I make sure I'm not committing copyright infringement? First of all, if you intend to use someone else's material, you may want to check the public domain to see if something is suitable for use, rather than trying to use someone else's copyright. However, if you can't find something suitable (and you can't create something yourself), the best thing to do (and your only legal course of action) is to find a copyrighted piece and contact the copyright holder. When contacting the copyright holder, be sure to tell them what you want to use their piece for (whether it's for your blog, podcast, or report) and ask if you can use it. You may need to pay royalties, or attribution in your piece, or a combination of both. The creator can also impose many restrictions on when and how you can use his material. Follow all the instructions they give you and you will be free and clear to use their work as you wish. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essay Once you get permission To use a copyrighted work, you need to make sure you stay within the agreed upon limits: if you go outside the agreed upon terms, you could expose yourself to a copyright infringement lawsuit, which can be unpleasant, expensive and time consuming. If you have any concerns, before contacting the copyright owner, contact a copyright attorney to ensure you comply with the law and protect yourself!