Minnesota Piracy & Privateering Lawyer

These days it seems a lot easier to jump on the internet and simply download a CD or movie you have wanted to watch. After all, you don’t have to leave the house and you don’t have to pay a cent. And, in some instances, you can see the latest releases before they even hit the stores! However, you should also know that piracy is an infringement of copyright laws and thus what you are doing is actually considered illegal.

The biggest problem surrounding piracy is that the federal government is fighting back against piracy and copyright laws to ensure that music, software and movies stay protected. One of the ways in which they are doing this is by proving the seriousness of piracy crime by installing extremely high fines and penalties for those convicted. If you have been accused of piracy, it is not a joke. It is imperative that you get the legal representation you need to fight an aggression battle against the federal courts.

Understanding Copyright and Piracy Laws

Copyright laws have been in place for a number of years but it wasn’t until 1998, with the rise of digital copyright infringement and internet piracy that the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) of 1998 was put into place. This act made it illegal to sell devices that allow a violation of copyright laws. In 2005, the Family Entertainment and Copyright Act of 2005 came out that criminalized any pirated movie behavior. This includes filming movies in a theatre or making any movie or software available to the public before its release date.

One of the most common types of piracy in today’s world is file sharing involving the internet. Peer to peer filing sharing makes it easier than ever to produce, distribute and download movies, music and software without paying for it. Often those who are involved in this type of illegal activity are classified as juveniles. However, unfortunately the law does not care about your age. Even if you are a young offender, you could still face criminal conviction surrounding the piracy and copyright laws.

Copyright and Piracy Law Convictions

Most piracy convictions take place in the federal courts as this problem does not only stay within state lines. This is why you need to speak to an experienced federal court attorney about your charge.

For first time piracy offenders, you could be looking at a fine of up to $500,000 and a jail sentence of up to five years. For repeat piracy offenders, you can expect a fine of up to $1,000,000 and a jail sentence of up to ten years.

Furthermore, many federal piracy cases will also come with civil lawsuits through the companies or individuals holding the copyrights to the music, movies and software. For example, not only could you face criminal conviction under the federal law, but you may also be directly sued by Paramount, Def Records or Walt Disney.

Federal Criminal Lawyer Minnesota

If you are facing copyright or piracy charges, then you need to contact a Minnesota piracy attorney immediately. Even if you suspect you may be under investigation, make the call to ensure the best outcome possible. Do not wait until it’s too late. DeVore Law Office will assess your case immediately to determine your best defense against piracy accusations. For a free initial consultation and the assurance that your case is being handled by the best, contact us 24/7 at 651-633-5000.