Architecture, engineering and design

Copyright law, following the passage of the Architectural Works Copyright Protection Act, has emerged as the primary means through which architects and engineers can protect their works form being appropriated. It is crucial for architects and engineers to have an understanding of copyright so that they are aware of their rights and avoid liabilities. The damages available from an infringement lawsuit can threaten the survival of a firm, if practitioners are not careful to minimize risks.

Designs for the Jefferson Building, Library of Congress, Smithmeyer and Pelz: 1873

Design copyright litigation

Sen Law’s copyright litigation practice prosecutes and defends architects, engineers, design firms, and construction professionals in copyright infringement actions. Sen Law’s relies on field-specific knowledge of the major industry structures and brings expertise to the litigation issues that commonly arise in design cases, including the Architectural Works Copyright Protection Act, challenges to copyright registrations, implied-licenses, Digital Millennium Copyright Act claims, the calculation of damages in construction settings, and the American Institute of Architect’s model copyright provisions. We zealously advocate on behalf of our clients to ensure that we provide the best opportunity available to achieve their objectives.

Design transactions

Sen Law’s transactional practice advises on all types of design agreements. The Office’s concentration on intellectual property dovetails into our representation of architects, engineers, design and construction professionals, whose most valuable assets are often intangible. We work with clients to ensure that every agreement accurately reflects the intent of  the parties, and that the underlying intellectual property rights are sufficiently protected. We also consult with design firms on best practices they may adopt to ensure protection of their intellectual property and avoidance of liability.