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Copyright law in Nicaragua is largely governed by the "Law on Copyright and Related Rights" of 1999, also known as Law No. 312, which is administered by the Nicaraguan Registry of Intellectual Property. The law protects literary, artistic and scientific creations expressed in any medium, including texts, works of visual or performing arts, photographs, music, videos, and software.
Engaging a lawyer may be beneficial in a variety of situations. Common situations may include if you believe your copyrighted work has been used without authorization, if you need assistance in registering a copyright, if you are facing accusations concerning copyright infringement, or if you need help in negotiating and drafting licensing agreements.
Law No. 312 provides vast protection to authors or creators of copyrighted work. It ensures the author's exclusive right to authorize, prevent or receive remuneration for the reproduction, distribution, public performance, broadcasting, translation, and adaptation of their work. Violation of these rights can lead to civil damages and criminal penalties including imprisonment. Notably, the law also provides moral rights which protect an author's reputation and the integrity of their work against distortion, modification or unauthorized disclosures.
The copyright protection in Nicaragua extends throughout the author's life plus seventy years after death.
Yes, any work published in Nicaragua, or if its author is a resident of Nicaragua, is protected by Nicaraguan copyright law, regardless of the author's nationality.
Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, public performance, rental, or broadcasting of a copyrighted work, as well as the importation of any product that infringes copyright, are all considered to be copyright infringement under Law No. 312.
Civil and criminal penalties for copyright infringement include confiscation and destruction of the infringing copies, monetary damages, and can even lead to imprisonment.
Although registration is not required for copyright protection in Nicaragua, it does provide prima facie evidence of validity and ownership of the copyright and is therefore highly recommended.
The main governmental body overseeing copyright law in Nicaragua is the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Trade (MIFIC) through the Nicaraguan Register of Intellectual Property. Global organizations such as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the US Copyright Office also provide valuable resources and information about copyright law.
If you need legal assistance with copyright issues in Managua, Nicaragua, consider engaging a local lawyer who specializes in intellectual property law. You may also want to consult with the Nicaraguan Register of Intellectual Property or other intellectual property associations in Managua.
