Q: What steps should our music ministry take to avoid copyright-related lawsuits?

A: Gain permission from the owner for the proposed use of any copyrighted materials before using them.

You should consider the impact of copyright laws before you:

  • Use media such as movie clips, computer graphics, or sound bites in your ministry.
  • Show a film to a group at church.
  • Copy sheets of music for your music ministry team.

How Best to Comply

The best way to comply with copyright law is to not use a photograph, song, film, or computer-generated image without permission for the proposed use. You have several options available to avoid copyright infringement, including the purchase of a blanket license that applies to several works for a specific use.

Recommended Resources

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*Important information: Brotherhood Mutual is pleased to provide Legal Assist as a complimentary resource. The services we offer through Legal Assist are intended to provide general legal information to our current and prospective policyholders.

The information we provide is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. Accordingly, no attorney/client relationship is created through this process, and no legal advice will be provided. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.