However, if the quote you want to use is in writing, particularly if it is taken from a professional work, or is from a newspaper or magazine, or is taken from a work of fiction, or is a song lyric, a poem, or is from a personal letter, you will need permission to use it. Contrary to common belief, material obtained from the Internet or from an email is also protected by copyright law. In addition, photographs or other graphic material such as ads or charts or cartoons must have permission to be used.

Case Studies, Interviews, and Research

Many non-fiction authors use case studies and interviews to add the human element through stories to their work. This is an important technique and is important in creating a good book. Whenever possible, the best approach is to disguise beyond recognition the identities and circumstances of individuals quoted or referred to in interviews or cases or examples. Generally you should use a changed first-name only to identify people, and use such generalities that many people could be that person you write about.

Getting Permission

You will probably have to figure out first who actually owns the material you want to copy. Most likely it is the publisher of the material, but may also be the author of the material.

If the publisher no longer exists, the rights would likely have reverted to the author. If the author has died, then the estate probably owns the rights.

Once you determine the owner, you need to send a letter or email and ask if the copyright owner will grant permission. You will want to send a form with your letter that tells exactly how and under what circumstances you will use the material.

If you are working with a traditional publisher, that publisher will probably have forms they want you to use that cover all the rights they want you to obtain.

If you self-publish, you may want to use standardized forms developed for that purpose.

Take the ownership of intellectual property seriously and get permissions up front. Don't wait for an attorney to get in touch with you after the fact.

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