Federal Copyright Infractions
Stockton, California Attorney Allen Sawyer
The Law Offices of Allen Sawyer serves clients across California from its Stockton, Sacramento, and San Jose locations. Renowned for his tough criminal defense of both state and federal cases, federal criminal defense attorney Allen Sawyer has been repeatedly successful representing California clients charged with federal offenses, such as copyright infractions.
Aggressive California Copyright Infractions Defense
Although often resolved in civil court, copyright infractions can be considered a federal crime that carries severe penalties if convicted, including jail time. Being under investigation for, or being charged with, copyright infractions is serious. Contacting a federal criminal defense attorney who is familiar with the aspects of copyright law and who knows the best steps to take toward providing an effective defense is vital. California federal criminal defense attorney Allen Sawyer is experienced in confronting copyright violation charges head on to assess their validity and to determine the best course of action in building your defense.
What Actions Qualify as Federal Copyright Infractions?
Falling into the category of intellectual property theft, copyright infractions include the intentional use, copying, or distribution of a copyrighted work without the owner’s permission and for the purpose of financial gain.
Sample Federal Copyright Infractions:
Copyrighted works can involve a number of items within a spectrum of tangible and virtual works, such as the following:
- Music
- Movies and TV shows
- Designer fashion and products
- Computers and software
- Video games
- Written content
- Content available on the Internet
- and other works
Violating copyright laws is considered a criminal offense that, in the most severe cases, can bring up to five years in prison and damages ranging as high as $150,000. Securing an attorney seasoned in providing the best response to charges of copyright infractions cannot be overstated. Federal Defense Attorney Allen Sawyer will intervene immediately to assess the charges and endeavor to resolve them outside of court. Should it come to trial, Sawyer will rely on his vast experience handing federal prosecutors and providing an aggressive defense.
Defending against Copyright Infractions Charges
California Criminal Defense Attorney Allen Sawyer
A proactive defense against charges of copyright infractions is extremely important, and your federal criminal defense attorney should immediately begin to assess the facts of the case and build your defense; however, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. In order to prove that a criminal offense has indeed been committed, federal prosecutors must establish several factors, including the following:
- Validity of Copyright—First and foremost, the work in question must be proven to be covered by valid copyright protection. Not everything is copyrighted.
- Knowing and Willful—It is the responsibility of prosecutors to show that any copyright infractions were committed purposefully.
- Financial or Commercial Gain—The prosecution must show that a person obtained/intended to obtain a profit or some sort of business advantage by using a copyrighted work without permission.
If you’ve been charged with copyright infractions, or if you have been notified via a demand letter that you’re being accused of violating a copyright, remain calm. Do not respond personally to the accusations; also, do not ignore them. Make sure to immediately reach out to a federal criminal defense lawyer who possesses the skills, experience, and strategies required to achieve the best possible outcome. Contact The Law Offices of Allen Sawyer today for a free initial consultation.
Contact an Attorney Now
If you’ve been charged with a federal crime, it is essential that you secure representation by a California criminal defense attorney who does not shy away from the challenges of criminal defense at a federal level. California federal defense attorney Allen Sawyer knows how tough federal prosecutors can be. Having spent a portion of his career as a prosecutor uniquely equips him to anticipate and defend against the most skilled of federal prosecutors. If you’ve been charged with a federal crime, time is of the essence. Don’t wait: Contact The Law Offices of Allen Sawyer today.