Government Seeks Feedback on Tiny Copyright Court That's Saved Time and Money
Published Date: 3/10/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Copyright Office is studying the Copyright Claims Board (CCB), a special place where people can settle small copyright disputes worth $30,000 or less without going to court. This study wants your thoughts on how well the CCB is working since it started in June 2022. If you have opinions, send them by May 9, 2025, and replies by June 23, 2025—this could shape how copyright claims are handled and save money and time for many folks!
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Small-claims copyright limit $30,000
You can use the Copyright Claims Board (CCB) for copyright disputes with total monetary value of $30,000 or less. For statutory damages the CASE Act limits awards to $15,000 per work infringed.
Filing fee: $100 in two payments
If you file a claim with the CCB you must pay a $100 filing fee. The fee is paid in two installments: $40 initially and $60 later.
Smaller-claims streamlined option
If you request a 'smaller claims' proceeding, discovery and written testimony can be more limited and normally one CCB Officer will preside. The process uses a conference, proposed findings, and a chance to respond before a final determination to simplify cases for self-represented parties.
Bad-faith attorneys' fees capped $5,000
Under the CASE Act, the cap for attorneys' fees and costs awarded for bad-faith conduct is $5,000, although the CCB can exceed that cap in extraordinary circumstances.
Default process for nonparticipation
If a respondent fails to participate or misses deadlines without good cause, the CCB may start default determination proceedings. The claimant must submit written testimony and the CCB will decide if default and any award are appropriate.
Respondent 60-day opt-out window
If you are served with a CCB claim, you have 60 days from service to opt out of the CCB and keep your right to go to federal court. If you do not opt out within 60 days, the case proceeds in the CCB.
Study may consider subpoena power, mediation
The Office is asking whether the CCB should be given subpoena power to identify or locate unknown online infringers and whether the CCB should offer mediation or other nonbinding dispute-resolution services.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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