Susan Spann I talk a lot about contracts, here and in other #PubLaw posts. Most authors know that a contract is needed, and many even know what terms to request. However, we don’t talk nearly enough about how to request those terms. Negotiation isn’t a topic most of us learn in school, and many authors […]

Susan Spann  In recent months, I’ve seen the resurgence of several terrible publishing “offers” that business-savvy authors should learn to recognize and avoid. Some people might call them “scams” – though these particular “deals” are legal if an author signs them. They remind me of my law school contracts professor’s warning that “you can make […]

Susan Spann In Star Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi refers to Mos Eisley spaceport as a “wretched hive of scum and villainy” and adds, “we must be careful.” Obi-Wan’s wisdom applies to the Internet too.  Regardless of your publishing path, if you write for publication, you should take steps to protect your copyrighted work against Internet-based infringement. […]

Susan Spann As a publishing lawyer, I often get asked about copyright in scenes and settings, and how the law of infringement applies when stories are set in similar locations. Like many other copyright questions, the answer depends on a number of factors. However, unlike many legal questions, the guidelines are straightforward and fairly easy […]

Susan Spann Happy Holidays! ‘Tis the season to stay off the copyright “naughty list,” so I’m here to share a few #PubLaw tips for avoiding copyright infringement in your holiday blogging and social media celebrations! When celebrating online this holiday season, keep these helpful rules in mind: SONGS (AND LYRICS) ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT At […]