Vicki Allums, Esq., The American Institute of Architects, Washington, D.C.
Jeffrey R. Gargano, Esq., and Brent Hawkins, Esq., Wallenstein Wagner & Rockey, Chicago

      In 1990, Congress amended the U.S. Copyright Act to provide architectural drawings and designs with the full scope of protection granted to other copyrighted works. Explore how this law protects these works and the difference between copyright infringement and the failure to give proper credit under AIA’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

Learning objectives:

• Describe how architectural drawings and designs are protected under U.S. copyright and patent laws
• Discuss the problems posed by protecting architectural works in a digital environment (e.g., electronic plan rooms)
• Explain the nuances between copyright infringement of architectural drawings and designs and improper credit of architectural works.