RitzyToo! February-March 2015 | Page 14

A Book Review on The Copyright Handbook Aside from bead jewelry making patterns, the next most sought after information is how can I protect my original designs, my tutorials, instructions, and photos? Where can I get reliable information and instructions on how to fill out the forms I need without having to hire a lawyer? Well you are in luck because what you seek is definitely available, and as a former independent paralegal, I know the best resource for you. This is why I was tasked to prepare this RitzyToo magazine book review. First, I did some extensive looking in case there was an alternative to my favorite, Nolo Press, from Berkeley, California. I was rewarded, or so I first thought. I found a book, reportedly written by an attorney who was also established in jewelry making and design from what I could tell. Unfortunately, I was totally disappointed because I was never once able to make contact for further information to help me do this book review--so, I finally moved on to my first class, favorite standby, Nolo Press, with whom I have actually had extensive dealings. You can find them at http://www.nolo.org The Copyright Handbook, Stephen Fishman, JD. Stephen Fishman is a highly experienced author of many law and business related publications including, The Copyright Handbook, one that should be of immediate interest to any serious, designer, artisan, or instructor. He is known for other works such as Deduct It! Lower Your Small Business Taxes, Every Landlord’s Tax Deduction Guide, Tax Deductions for Professionals, and Home Business Tax Deductions: Keep What You Earn--plus many others. Fishman received his law degree from the University of Southern California and became a full-time legal writer in 1983. Are You Getting Full Copyright Protection? With the vagaries presented by the current state of intellectual propery law, The Copyright Handbook should already be in your private library ready to use if you are artisan, designer, or hobbyist. No writer like to see their hard work wasted, creativity copied by others, or to be accused of copyright infringements themselves.  Fortunately, The Copyright Handbook provides both information and forms you can rely on when you need to deal with such issues as: -registering your work -maximizing copyright protection -transferring ownership of copyright -avoiding infringement -understanding the “fair use” rule -obtaining permission to use copyrighted work -profiting from your copyrighted projects The 12t