law Archives

Indie Authors Need to Talk About… Copyright

The indie author's ability to make a living from writing books rests on the concept and laws of copyright. And indie authors can get very heated when they feel that right is being violated, whether by another person, or a machine. Is copyright broken in the digital age? Should we ditch it and start again. Today, the Alliance of Independent Authors AskALLi team begins with a new first series article. Orna Ross and Dan Holloway give us their opinions and tell us why indie authors need to talk about... copyright.

Authors, Artificial Intelligence and IP: ALLi’s Submission to UK Government

Alliance of Independent Authors reply to UK government consultation on authors, artificial intelligence (AI) and intellectual property (IP), recommends easy access to data, but within a clear licensing, copyright and IP framework that fosters the development of AI and its use in publishing by author-publishers and third-party publishers, while not diluting the existing rights of authors as creators and copyright holders.

The Ultimate Guide to Copyright for Authors

Copyright is an author's key to income, career and a sustainable lifestyle. But it's surrounded by complex laws, detailed information that can be confusing and overwhelming. Today, the Alliance of Independent Authors brings you a the ultimate guide to copyright. Everything you need to know to understand and maximize your copyright.

Contracts for Indie Authors: A Glossary

Writers are good with words, but when it comes to contracts, they're big, long documents with loads of legal jargon. Not words we would use in flowing prose or fantasy descriptions. And yet, contracts are often a part of our working life as we license rights, sign deals, become hybrid etc. Today, the Alliance of Independent Authors, welcomes Kathryn Goldman who has kindly created a contracts for creatives glossary.

How to avoid Libel and Defamation as an Author

Most authors don't need to worry about libel. It’s rare for a novelist to be sued for libel. But there are occasions when libel can cause problems for authors. This post examines how to avoid libel and defamation as an author.

Is Copyright Broken? Part 2 – The Indie Author’s Guide to Managing Plagiarism

Is copyright broken? That's the question the Alliance of Independent Authors AskALLi team is continuing to ask today. We don't think it's broken, but it doesn't always work. In a two part series starting ending today—which started last week—we explore both piracy and plagiarism and the impact they're having on members as well as what you can do about them. With deep thanks to all of our members who contributed with insightful comments and a special thanks to John Doppler, our resident watchdog for his knowledge and contributions to the posts. This is the ultimate guide to plagiarism.

Is Copyright Broken? Part 1 – The Indie Author’s Guide to Managing Piracy

Is copyright broken? That's the question the Alliance of Independent Authors AskALLi team is asking today. We don't think it's broken, but it doesn't always work. In a two part series starting today and finishing next Monday, we explore both piracy and plagiarism and the impact they're having on members as well as what you can do about them. With deep thanks to all of our members who contributed with insightful comments and a special thanks to John Doppler, our resident watchdog for his knowledge and contributions to the posts. The Indie Author's Guide to Piracy.

Copyright for Indie Authors

Copyright can be a confusing tricky little beast, especially if you're a non-fiction writer. But even fiction authors can come a cropper. Images, quotes, even brand names all have copyright associated to them. ALLi partner member Tim McConnehey, founder of IzzardInk is here to tease out the ins and outs of copyright for indie authors.

The Legal Use of Song Lyrics in Books from the Perspective of an Indie Author

Ever considered using song lyrics or titles in your books? Read this post for useful insights on the matter from a former lawyer.