Copyright Tips from experts* at CopyrightsNow.com
Common Question:
Does a work have to be ‘Published’ to be copyright protected?
Answer: No. Publication is not necessary for copyright protection.
The definition of ‘Published’ under copyright law is the distribution of copies of a work to the public by sale or other transfer of ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending.
While your original writing (published and unpublished) is automatically protected under U. S. copyright law, registering your copyright enables you to enforce your rights by filing a lawsuit for damages and attorney's fees; It also creates a public record and makes it easier to defend your copyright in a court of law.
Advantages of registering ‘Unpublished’