media-and-entertainment-law

Intellectual Property Law Services in Bangladesh

Afzal and Associates provides comprehensive legal services in intellectual property (IP) law, helping individuals and businesses in Bangladesh protect their creative works, inventions, and brands. We offer expert guidance on copyright, trademarks, patents (if applicable in your practice), trade secrets, and related areas. We also assist with production agreements and international media law compliance.

Our Intellectual Property Law Services

Copyright Registration and Enforcement

Copyright protects original works of authorship, including literary, dramatic, musical, and certain other intellectual works. We provide the following services:

• Copyright Registration: We assist with registering your copyrights with the appropriate authorities in Bangladesh, providing legal evidence of ownership.
• Copyright Infringement: We represent clients in cases of copyright infringement, pursuing legal action against those who unlawfully copy or distribute copyrighted works.
• Copyright Licensing: We draft and negotiate copyright licensing agreements, allowing you to grant others permission to use your work while protecting your rights.
• Copyright Counseling: We provide legal advice on all aspects of copyright law, including fair use, public domain, and international copyright protection.

Protect Your Copyright

Trademark Registration and Enforcement

A trademark is a symbol, design, or phrase legally registered to represent a company or product. We offer comprehensive trademark services, including:

• Trademark Searches: We conduct thorough searches to determine if your desired trademark is available for registration.
• Trademark Registration: We handle the entire trademark registration process with the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) in Bangladesh.
• Trademark Monitoring: We monitor the marketplace for potential trademark infringements.
• Trademark Enforcement: We take legal action against those who infringe on your trademark rights, including sending cease and desist letters and pursuing litigation.
• Trademark Opposition and Cancellation: We represent clients in opposition and cancellation proceedings before the DPDT.

Register Your Trademark

Production Agreements

We provide legal expertise in drafting, negotiating, and reviewing production agreements for various creative industries, including:

• Film and Television: Agreements for actors, writers, directors, producers, and distributors.
• Music: Agreements for recording artists, songwriters, producers, and music publishers.
• Publishing: Agreements for authors, publishers, and distributors.
• Software and Technology: Agreements for software development, licensing, and distribution.
• Other Creative Industries: We can tailor agreements to meet the specific needs of any creative project.

Get Help with Production Agreements

International Media Law and Cross-Border Agreements

We advise clients on international media law issues, including:

• Cross-border licensing and distribution agreements: We help clients navigate the legal complexities of distributing content internationally.
• International copyright and trademark protection: We advise on strategies for protecting IP rights in multiple jurisdictions.
• Compliance with international media regulations: We ensure that our clients' activities comply with relevant international laws and treaties.

Discuss International Media Law

Why Choose Afzal and Associates for Intellectual Property Law?

• Specialized Expertise: Our team has in-depth knowledge of Bangladesh intellectual property law and international best practices.
• Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of IP services, from registration to enforcement.
• Client-Focused Approach: We understand the unique needs of creators and businesses, and we tailor our services accordingly.
• Proactive Protection: We help you proactively protect your IP assets to prevent infringement and maximize their value.
• Strong Advocacy: We are skilled negotiators and litigators, prepared to vigorously defend your IP rights.

Relevant Legislation (Bangladesh)

• The Copyright Act, 2000: Governs copyright protection in Bangladesh.
• The Trademarks Act, 2009: Governs trademark registration and protection.
• The Patents and Designs Act, 1911: (Note: While this Act is still in place, it's outdated. Bangladesh is working on a new patent law.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is intellectual property?

Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. IP rights allow creators to control and benefit from their creations.

What is the difference between copyright and trademark?

Copyright protects original works of authorship, such as books, music, films, and software. Trademark protects brand names, logos, and other symbols that identify and distinguish goods/services of one party from those of others.

How do I register a copyright in Bangladesh?

In Bangladesh, copyright protection is automatic upon creation of an original work; formal registration is not mandatory but is *highly recommended*. Registration provides legal evidence of ownership and makes it easier to enforce your rights. You can register your copyright with the Copyright Office of Bangladesh. We can assist you with the entire registration process.

How do I register a trademark in Bangladesh?

Trademark registration in Bangladesh is done through the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT). The process involves filing an application, examination by the DPDT, publication for opposition, and, if no opposition is filed, issuance of the registration certificate. We can handle the entire trademark registration process for you.

What is copyright infringement?

Copyright infringement occurs when someone uses a copyrighted work without the permission of the copyright owner, violating their exclusive rights (e.g., reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance). Examples include unauthorized copying of books, music, software, or films.

What is trademark infringement?

Trademark infringement occurs when someone uses a trademark that is identical or confusingly similar to a registered trademark, in connection with goods or services that are the same or similar to those covered by the registration, without the trademark owner's permission. This can lead to consumer confusion and damage to the trademark owner's brand.

What can I do if my copyright or trademark is infringed?

If your copyright or trademark is infringed, you can take several legal actions, including: sending a cease and desist letter, filing a lawsuit for infringement, seeking damages (compensation), and obtaining an injunction to stop the infringing activity. We can help you with all of these steps.

What is a production agreement?

A production agreement is a contract that outlines the terms and conditions for the creation of a work, such as a film, television show, music recording, or software program. It typically covers issues such as ownership of intellectual property, payment terms, deadlines, and responsibilities of the parties involved.

Why do I need a lawyer for international media law matters?

International media law is complex, involving treaties, conventions, and the laws of multiple countries. A lawyer specializing in this area can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring that your agreements are enforceable and your rights are protected across borders.

How long does copyright protection last in Bangladesh?

Under the Copyright Act, 2000 of Bangladesh, the term of copyright protection varies depending on the type of work. Generally, for literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, copyright lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 60 years. There are different terms for other types of works (e.g., photographs, cinematographic films, sound recordings). It's important to consult with a lawyer to determine the specific duration of copyright for your work.

Contact Us

For expert legal advice and assistance with intellectual property matters in Bangladesh, contact Afzal and Associates today.

Phone: +880 1726634656

Email: advafzalhosen@gmail.com

Address: Upojila Gate, Narsingdi Judge Court Road, Narsingdi, Dhaka, Bangladesh, 1600

Disclaimer: This page provides general information about intellectual property law and is not a substitute for legal advice. Consult with Afzal and Associates for specific legal guidance.

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