2013: The first year that authors can terminate transfers under Section 203.

Other pressing copyright matters are wending their way through the courts, consuming the precious time of legislators and sapping the attention of the IP news.  2013 promises to bring us developments on the first sale doctrine (Kirtsaeng v. John Wiley), Internet radio fairness (or lack thereof—IRFA), online television broadcasters (Aereo cases) and digital video recording (AutoHop cases).  This year may also see significant headlines on fair use, contributory/inducement liability, orphan works and even small claims for copyright cases.  And, let’s not forget about everyone’s favorite boogeyman, copyright trolls.

Nevertheless, I believe some major activities on terminations of transfer are going on behind the scenes.  The clock is ticking on the Termination Time Bomb.  This will be one of the biggest copyright news stories of the year!

Stay tuned . . .