Obtain advice on copyright protection

In Switzerland, copyright is protected from the moment works are created. No announcement or entry in a register is required to benefit from copyright. However, it is advisable to take certain steps to prove the authorship of works and their date of creation, if applicable, such as recording them on a digital medium or depositing them with a lawyer or notary.

In the event of unauthorized use of works, several measures are possible, including recourse to the judicial authorities. Before doing so, it is advisable to contact the usurper to try to reach an agreement. When someone uses works without right, the author can apply to a civil court to stop the use or even prohibit it as a preventive measure, and at the same time claim damages and, depending on the circumstances, compensation for moral prejudice from the usurper.

Generally speaking, it is also possible to apply directly to the criminal authorities by lodging a complaint for copyright infringement or other offences protecting copyright.

The steps to be taken vary according to the circumstances. A simple discussion with the usurper is sometimes enough to settle a dispute without having to resort to legal proceedings. If this is not the case, civil and/or criminal proceedings may be the solution.

Legalify offers assistance for the protection of your copyright against unauthorized use. Contact our lawyers for more information.