Includes bibliographical references (p. 299-302) and index.

The business of writing -- Copyright : gaining and keeping protection -- Copyright : registration and deposit -- Copyright : works made for hire, joint works, and community property -- Copyright : infringement, fair use, and permissions -- Copyright : past and present -- Other rights of the writer -- The limitations on free expression -- The Freedom of Information Act -- Contracts : an introduction -- Negotiating a book contract -- Periodical and syndication contracts -- Film and television contracts and dramatic productions -- Electronic rights, e-books, and audio licenses -- Literary agents and agency agreements -- Collaboration agreements -- Book packagers -- The self-publishing option and subsidy presses -- Taxes : income and expenses -- Taxes : beyond schedule C -- The hobby loss rule -- Estate planning for professional authors -- How to avoid or resolve disputes.