Getting off on the right foot is key to traveling on the road to success. And this year's Comic Book Law School is designed to help you navigate the best possible route (and provide help in deciphering the map legend). Noted IP attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, offers the first of three interactive and informative programs, which this year will track the trials and tribulations of (fictional) client Fitzgerald Scott, a fledgling comic book writer, as he traverses the many stages involved in the creation, development, protection, and commercialization of his newest comic book creation, "Shylock Homer" a war-weary poet-turned-detective solving crimes and fighting off mythical creatures as he travels the globe with his colleague Dr. Ulysses in search of his long-lost family. This first installment will focus on "The Basics" in an effort to provide the necessary foundation needed for understanding the various intellectual property rights available to creators and business owners and will include insights on how to protect those rights, focusing on how best to safeguard ideas, creative works, characters, brands, and names, from genesis through publication and distribution, and beyond. Attendees are invited to participate in an interactive discussion about the rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, including a discussion on the protections these laws provide, the benefits of federal registrations for each, tips on working with collaborators, and issues of joint authorship and work-made-for-hire. Along the way, there will be plenty to learn about the protections available, as well as the numerous potential pitfalls, under the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. Please note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and insights to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.]