Legal Clarifications 🔐

Understand the legal framework around public domain materials, including copyright expiration, dedication, and fair use.

What is Public Domain?

Public domain works are not protected by copyright law. This includes works where:

Use Guidelines

While public domain works allow free use, we recommend:

  1. CHECK THE ORIGIN — Some countries require additional verification
  2. RESPECT ATTRIBUTION — Even when not required, credit is good practice
  3. MODIFY WISELY — Avoid using public domain content for commercial defamations

Important Disclaimers

We cannot verify the legal status of specific materials you find on this platform. Always consult appropriate legal counsel before using content in regulated industries like healthcare, education, or government.

"The absence of copyright restrictions doesn't grant permission for illegal uses. Always ensure your application of public domain materials complies with anti-discrimination, safety, and privacy laws."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell public domain works?

Yes, but you cannot claim copyright on them. You may sell the product (e.g., a t-shirt with the Mona Lisa), but not the underlying work itself.

What about modified works?

You retain copyright to your MODIFICATIONS but not the original. Use license statements to clarify which elements are public domain and which are new.

How old must a work be?

The U.S. public domain cutoff is 1928 (but this changes yearly). International dates vary. The EU generally uses author's lifetime +70 years.

What about moral rights?

While copyright may expire, some countries preserve the creator's moral rights to their work (e.g., requiring citation or prohibiting defamatory use).