The term "author's widow or widower" refers to the surviving spouse of an author at the time of their death, as recognized by the laws of the author's home state. This definition applies regardless of whether the surviving spouse has remarried after the author's passing.
This term is primarily used in copyright law, which governs the rights of authors and their heirs. It is important in determining who holds the copyright to an author's works after their death. The author's widow or widower may have legal rights to manage or benefit from these works, including the ability to license them or receive royalties. Users can often find relevant legal forms on platforms like US Legal Forms to assist with copyright management and inheritance issues.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, if an author passes away and their spouse is still living, that spouse is considered the author's widow or widower. They would have the rights to the author's unpublished works and may also receive royalties from previously published works. (hypothetical example)
According to 17 USCS § 101, the definition of "author's widow or widower" is established within the context of copyright law. This statute outlines the rights of surviving spouses regarding an author's works.
| State | Details |
|---|---|
| California | Recognizes community property rights, which may affect the distribution of the author's works. |
| New York | Follows elective share laws that may influence the widow or widower's rights. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Author's Estate | The total assets and rights of the author after their death, including copyrights. |
| Heir | Any person entitled to inherit the author's property, which may include the widow or widower. |
If you are the surviving spouse of an author, it is important to understand your rights regarding the author's works. Consider consulting a legal professional for personalized advice. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage copyright issues effectively.
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They have rights to manage and benefit from the author's works, including licensing and royalties.