Get copyright protection

Anything "authored" is protected by copyright: music, lyrics, poetry, books – even email messages. Be sure to formally register your copyright in both the U.S. and any country in which you do business.

I recommend: Use the Directory of Intellectual Property Offices worldwide from The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Get trademark protection

A trademark (brand name) is an identifying word, symbol, name, or device that uniquely identifies your company. As with copyright, after registering your trademark with the U.S., make sure to register in any other countries in which you do business. Seeking legal counsel skilled in working with foreign attorneys is a good idea.

I recommend: You may register trademarks through WIPO either by printable forms or electronically. Search Findlaw and the American Bar Assciation Web sites for intellectual property or trademark attorneys.

Get patent protection

Patents grant certain exclusive rights to the owner of an invention. The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) allows owners to register for patent protection with over 100 countries by filing a single application.

I recommend: Call the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office PCT Help Desk for assistance in registering your U.S. patent overseas. Patent attorneys are specifically qualified to address patent issues (including taking an additional patent law bar exam) – search for one in Findlaw's Patent Lawyer directory.

Get help if you suspect infringement

If you think someone in a jurisdiction outside the U.S. has used your work without permission, consulting an intellectual property attorney with knowledge of overseas IP issues is your best bet.

I recommend: WIPO has a helpful Arbitration and Mediation Center. Australian IP law firm Phillips Ormonde Fitzpatrick offers an extensive listing of IP law firms worldwide. Check the U.S. Department of Commerce and International Trade Administration's StopFakes.gov to learn more about remedies for international piracy.