Best Copyright Lawyers in Juba

About Copyright Law in Juba, South Sudan

Copyright law in Juba is guided by The Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Protection Act, 2013 of South Sudan. This law ensures the protection of literary, artistic and scientific works in all fields safeguarding the rights of authors, performers, producers, and broadcasters. In this framework, copyright protection is given to original works of literature, film, music, art, broadcasts, and computer programs, among others.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal adviser is often crucial in situations involving copyright law. You may need a lawyer if you are creating a work that you wish to copyright or if your copyrighted work has been used without your consent. Lawyers can guide you through the copyright registration process and represent you in legal disputes. They can also provide crucial advice for copyright contract negotiations, or help you navigate through the complexities of international copyright laws if your work is published or used outside of South Sudan.

Local Laws Overview

According to South Sudan's Copyright Act, copyright protection begins from the moment a work is created and continues to protect the work for the lifetime of the author plus 50 years after the author's death. For audiovisual works, photographs, and broadcasts, the protection period is 50 years from the year the work was created or made available to the public. Infringement of these rights can lead to both civil and criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of works are protected under copyright law in Juba, South Sudan?

Copyrightable works include literary, musical and artistic works, audio-visual works, sound recordings, and broadcasts. It also covers original intellectual creations in the literary and artistic domain.

How long does copyright protection last in Juba, South Sudan?

Protection generally lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 50 years after the author's death. For certain types of works like audiovisual works or photographs, the period of protection is 50 years from creation or from the date they are lawfully made available to the public.

How do I register for copyright protection in Juba, South Sudan?

While copyright exists from the moment a creation is made, registering the copyright with the Ministry of Justice enhances protection and provides evidence of ownership, should disputes arise.

What action can I take if my copyright is violated?

If your copyright is violated, a lawyer can guide you on possible legal recourse which may include filing a suit for damages in a South Sudan court.

Does the South Sudanese Copyright Law protect works from outside the country?

Yes, it does. The Law applies to works of an author who is a South Sudanese national or works first published in South Sudan, and also extends to works eligible for protection under any international convention or other international agreements to which South Sudan is a party.

Additional Resources

The Ministry of Justice, Republic of South Sudan, provides resources related to national laws and regulations. Further, international agreements concerning copyright such as the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and the TRIPS Agreement provide additional insight into copyright protections.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance relating to Copyright in Juba, South Sudan, your first step should be to seek the services of a legal professional who specializes in copyright law. Prepare your queries, related documents, and talk in detail about your specific case in order to receive the accurate guidance and support.