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[doodleaddict]

  Hi, I need help with understanding the process of copyrighting my cartoon characters. I do understand when I create an image, it is automatically copyrighted. However, I do plan to use my characters for different media and perhaps to sell on merchandise. This will require a registered copyright. I found a topic on how to go about doing this in the U.S, but I live in Canada. I'm not sure if the same laws and methods apply. Do I send a digital copy of my work to the copyright office? If so, what file format? I have tried to look at my own government site, but I still can't find those small details I'm searching for. Any help on this is appreciated.

[Smokin]

Common question in these forums. If nobody else replies, try doing a search here for more answers. Basically, you can trademark your character or the copyright protection will protect derivative works as well. Most here comment on US law and some internation laws concerning copyrights. Typically copyright laws look similar or have many similarities from country to country which could help you search for info, ... like google "derivative works, canadian copyright law". Or of course consult a lawyer in your area.

[Kaitlin]

If you've checked through the Copyright website for the Canadian IP Office and its info on preparing applications and its FAQ's for copyright and still can't find what you need, try checking out the "contact us" page for the Canadian Copyright Office.  That gives the number for general inquiries as: 1-866-997-1936.  They should be able to point you in the right direction re procedures for filing.

But don't neglect reading up on the general info they offer on Canadian Copyright first, so you have a general idea of what's at issue. 

Good luck.