Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements accurately describes a copyright?

1. It protects ideas that are not yet documented

2. It allows for public use of artistic works

3. It safeguards original works fixed in a tangible medium

4. It pertains solely to government publications

The correct answer is: It safeguards original works fixed in a tangible medium

The statement that accurately describes a copyright is the one stating that it safeguards original works fixed in a tangible medium. Copyright law is designed to protect the expression of ideas, but not the ideas themselves, meaning that the protection begins only once an original work is expressed in some form that can be perceived. This could include literature, music, art, film, and more. The requirement that the work is fixed in a tangible medium—such as a written manuscript, a recorded song, or a digital file—is essential for copyright protection to apply. The other statements do not accurately depict what copyright entails. For instance, copyrights do not protect ideas that have not been documented; they only protect the expression of those ideas in a fixed form. Additionally, while there are provisions for public use of artistic works (like "fair use" and public domain), copyright primarily restricts unauthorized reproduction and distribution. Finally, copyright extends beyond government publications; while government works may have specific guidelines, copyright is applicable to a broad range of original works created by individuals or businesses.