Copyright is a legal right that is automatically secured when original works of authorship are �fixed in any tangible medium of expression, from which they can be reproduced, or otherwise communicated� (U.S. Copyright Law, title 17, U.S. Code Section 10). If you write a paper, compose a symphony, develop a computer program, paint a picture or take a photograph, you automatically own copyright to that work. You may not own the copyright if you did it for your employer as a work made for hire or if you were commissioned to do it as a work made for hire. If you authored a work with someone else, each of you is a co-owner of copyright, with equal rights in the work. The creator of a work is the original owner of the copyright unless the creator transfers the copyright in writing, or unless it was a work for hire. This poster will address frequently asked questions concerning copyright and the implications to publishing chemical literature.