Knowledge Base: Copyright

When copyright infringement occurs, the first line of action is usually a cease and desist letter. However, if an amicable settlement cannot be reached the offender may be taken to court.  Remedies for copyright infringement include awards of damages or injunctions to stop the infringing conduct. Copyright owners may choose to receive damages based on actual damages suffered, including lost profits, or prescribed statutory damage amounts. In addition, the Copyright Act creates criminal offenses and imposes penalties which include, for indictable offenses, fines and imprisonment.