U.S. federal copyright law can, in some cases, prevent the release of copyrighted writings and other authored materials under state public records laws.
October 30, 2025
high
legal
Courts have interpreted federal copyright protections as a potential basis to withhold authored materials from disclosure under state public records statutes.
Copyright is a transferable property right that can be owned or assigned by heirs or other rights holders, and such ownership can give those parties legal control over dissemination of written works.
October 30, 2025
high
legal
Ownership or assignment of copyright determines who has legal authority to permit or restrict publication or distribution of copyrighted materials.
The Register of Copyrights exercises regulatory authority over copyrights that can impact a wide array of intellectual property rights in the United States.
October 27, 2025
high
authority
Describes the regulatory scope and potential impact of the Register of Copyrights' decisions.
Nicklaus Companies holds the rights to sell clothing and equipment bearing the "Jack Nicklaus" logo.
October 21, 2025
high
temporal
Ongoing trademark/licensing rights held by Nicklaus Companies regarding the Jack Nicklaus name and logo