What Is the Right of Publicity?
State-by-State Overview of Publicity Rights
The right of publicity is the legal right to control and profit from the commercial use of a person’s name, image, likeness, voice, or other identifiable characteristics. In the United States, this right—also known as publicity rights or name and likeness rights—is not governed by a single federal law. Instead, it is shaped by a patchwork of state laws that vary widely in scope, enforcement, and recognition. Some states define the right of publicity through explicit statutes, while others rely on court-developed (common law) doctrines. These differences can affect what qualifies as using someone’s likeness without permission, and whether a person’s publicity rights survive after death.
This page features an interactive state-by-state map of publicity laws, highlighting how each jurisdiction approaches the right of publicity—ranging from no or limited recognition to robust protections. Click on a state to explore its specific laws and legal framework.
States With Rights of Publicity Laws
Click on a state to explore its rights of publicity protections.
Minimal right of publicity protections
Substantial right of publicity protections
Moderate right of publicity protections
Strongest right of publicity protections
Massachusetts
Heatmap Key
Scope of Protection
Advising on the Evolving Landscape of Publicity Rights
For strategic guidance on navigating rights of publicity laws, connect with a Moses Singer intellectual property attorney. Our team has deep experience advising clients on the ownership, protection, and commercial use of name, image, likeness, and other personal attributes across media, brands, and content.
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Penalties
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Application to Deceased Personalities
Ongoing Proof of Use
Required Registration
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
view the state statutes
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Yes, expires after 55 Years
No
Yes
No
Elizabeth A. Corradino
Partner, Chair – Intellectual Property, Entertainment/Media & Technology Practice Group
ecorradino@mosessinger.com
212.554.7892
Click on a profile to learn more
Elizabeth Corradino leads Moses Singer’s Intellectual Property, Entertainment/Media & Technology practice. She counsels clients on the clearance, protection, and enforcement of intellectual property, including rights of publicity, and advises on transactions involving name, image, and likeness. Her work spans content development, licensing, and branding strategies across digital and traditional media.
Elizabeth Corradino
Partner, Chair – Intellectual Property, Entertainment/Media & Technology Practice Group
ecorradino@mosessinger.com
212.554.7892
David Rabinowitz
Partner – Intellectual Property & Litigation
drabinowitz@mosessinger.com
212.554.7815
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Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Actual damages
West Virginia
Minimal recognition and enforcement
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No court ruling
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
New Hampshire
Minimal recognition and enforcement
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Likeness
No
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Missouri
Minimal recognition and enforcement
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Likeness
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
No court ruling
Connecticut
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
Required Registration
No
No court ruling
Rhode Island
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Louisiana
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
Yes, with conditions (domiciled in state at death, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Arizona
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
Yes, with conditions (military only, undefined expiration)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Kentucky
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Yes (expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
New York
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Image
Yes
Penalties
Yes (expires after 40 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
South Carolina
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Yes (undefined expiration)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
New Mexico
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Likeness
No
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No court ruling
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Hawaii
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Georgia
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Photograph
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
Required Registration
No
Tennessee
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Photograph
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Utah
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Image
Likeness
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Application to Deceased Personalities
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Wisconsin
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Attorney's fees or costs
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Virginia
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Yes (expires after 20 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
No
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$2,000
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Treble damages
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$10,000
Actual damages
Profits
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Yes (expires after 70 years)
Injunctive relief
Yes (undefined expiration)
No
Actual damages
Profits
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Yes (indefinite expiration)
Actual damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Pennsylvania
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Injunctive relief
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Arkansas
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Injunctive relief
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
Yes
California
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$750
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Attorney's fees or costs
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ongoing Proof of Use
Required Registration
Yes
Nevada
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$750
Actual damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Yes (expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ongoing Proof of Use
Required Registration
Alabama
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$5,000
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Texas
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$2,500
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Attorney's fees or costs
Washington
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$1,500
Actual damages
Profits
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Florida
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Illinois
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Michigan
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Yes (undefined expiration)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Nebraska
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Image
Personality
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Oklahoma
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Yes
Penalties
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Yes (expires after 100 Years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
New Jersey
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
Common Law
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Yes
Penalties
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Yes (expires after 50 Years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Ohio
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Distinctive Appearance
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$2,500 - $10,000
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes, with conditions (Domiciled in state at death, expires after 30 years)
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Yes, with conditions (domiciled in state at death, expires after 70 years)
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes, with conditions (domiciled in state at death, expires after 55 years)
Yes (expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
Yes
Yes, with conditions (must be a public personality, expires after 75 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Yes (expires after 40 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Yes (expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Yes
Yes (unclear expiration)
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
Yes
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Yes, with conditions (domiciled or residence in state at death, expires after 60 years)
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
South Dakota
Full statutory framework and strong enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Treble damages
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes, with conditions (domiciled or residence in state at death, expires after 70 years)
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
Yes
Indiana
Full statutory framework and strong enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Yes
Penalties
Minimum fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Yes, with conditions (violation must occur within Indiana, expires after 100 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Treble damages
Minnesota
Full statutory framework and strong enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes (undefined expiration)
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
Not addressed
MA
RI
CT
David Rabinowitz
Partner – Intellectual Property & Litigation
David Rabinowitz, a partner in Moses Singer’s Intellectual Property, Litigation, and Law Firms practices, advises entertainment, media, and sports clients on right of publicity, copyright, trademark, licensing, and defamation. He also counsels on intellectual property, contract, and employment disputes. David represents clients in high-stakes litigation and alternative dispute resolution and is recognized as a New York Metro Super Lawyer and AV® Preeminent™ rated attorney.
drabinowitz@mosessinger.com
212.554.7815
No current statutory or common law protections
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
Are There Statutory Penalties?
Application to Deceased Personalities
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Click on a state to explore its rights of publicity protections.
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MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS
Yes
Yes
No
MASSACHUSETTS
view the state statutes
Learn More about elizabeth
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
Actual damages
Profits
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
view the state statutes
Application to Deceased Personalities
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No court ruling
Ongoing Proof of Use
No court ruling
Required Registration
No
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Basic statutory recognition
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Application to Deceased Personalities
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
Application to Deceased Personalities
No
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Comprehensive recognition with moderate enforcement
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Actual damages
Profits
Compensatory damages
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Treble damages
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Legal Basis
State Statute
Scope of Protection
Name
Voice
Signature
Photograph
Image
Likeness
Personality
Distinctive Appearance
Are there statutory penalties?
Yes
Penalties
Minimum Fixed / Statutory damages
$1,000 fine (criminal)
Actual damages
Profits
Punitive damages
Injunctive relief
Attorney's fees or costs
Application to Deceased Personalities
Yes, with conditions (registration by successor or knowledge of claim by violating party before commercial use, expires after 50 years)
Rights Transferable to Descendants
No
Ongoing Proof of Use
Yes
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
Massachusetts
Full statutory framework and strong enforcement
Massachusetts
Full statutory framework and strong enforcement
Rights Transferable to Descendants
Yes
Ongoing Proof of Use
No
Required Registration
No
view the state statutes
ALABAMA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
CONNECTICUT
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
HAWAII
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
ALABAMA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
CONNECTICUT
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
HAWAII
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
ALABAMA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
CONNECTICUT
Practices
AI & Data Law
Intellectual Property, Entertainment/Media & Technology
Litigation
Private Clients
Real Estate
Banking & Finance
Bankruptcy & Creditor's Rights
Corporate
Industries
Hospitality
Real Estate
Technology
Technology
Hospitality
Real Estate
Technology
Hospitality
Real Estate
Hospitality
Includes AI-generated "digital replicas" of likeness or voice
Includes AI-generated forms of likeness
Includes AI-generated voice or likeness
Includes AI-generated "digital replicas" of voice, image, or likeness
Includes AI-generated "digital replicas" of voice or likeness
Includes AI-generated "digital replicas"
Includes AI-generated "digital replicas" of likeness
Includes AI-generated likeness specific to political use cases
Includes AI-generated "forged digital likeness"
Likeness
Likeness
Likeness
Image
Likeness
Image
Likeness
Likeness
Likeness