Copyright Act 1976: Primary US federal copyright law (17 U.S.C. �� 101) that defines work for hire doctrine and establishes the framework for copyright ownership in employment relationships
Work Made for Hire Doctrine: Specific provision (17 U.S.C. �� 201(b)) defining when a work is considered made for hire, including nine statutory categories of qualifying works
Fair Labor Standards Act: Federal law establishing wage, overtime, and employment standards that must be considered when structuring work relationships
IRS Classification Guidelines: Federal guidelines determining independent contractor vs. employee status, crucial for work for hire agreements
State Employment Laws: Varying state-specific regulations governing employment relationships and contractor classifications
Patent Rights: Considerations for inventions or innovations created during the work period
Trademark Law: Protections and considerations for any branding or marks created under the agreement
Trade Secret Law: Provisions for protecting confidential information and trade secrets shared or created during the work
State Contract Laws: State-specific requirements for contract formation, enforcement, and interpretation
Statute of Frauds: Legal requirement that certain contracts must be in writing to be enforceable
IRS Tax Regulations: Federal tax requirements for independent contractor relationships, including W-9 documentation
State Tax Laws: State-specific tax obligations and reporting requirements for work for hire relationships
