What do I do if my copyright is infringed?

If you own the copyright, you are entitled to bring proceedings against the infringer for copyright infringement.

A number of civil remedies may be granted if the claim is successful: these include an award of damages or an injunction which orders the infringer to stop using the work immediately.

Bringing an action before the court can be costly and time consuming, however. You may therefore wish to resolve matters with the party infringing your copyright by agreeing an adequate settlement.

In all circumstances, you should seek specialist legal advice before pursuing a claim.

Artists signed up to our Copyright Licensing and Artist's Resale Right services can also contact our Copyright Advice Service for advice. If you are not signed up to either of these services (including artists signed up to Payback only), contact one of the organisations recommended in our Resources section.

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