Arizona

Feist Publications, Inc. v. Rural Telephone Service Co., Inc. in Arizona Law

How Feist Publications, Inc. v. Rural Telephone Service Co., Inc. applies in Arizona: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Copyright.

State Approach

In Arizona, the principles established by the U.S. Supreme Court in Feist Publications are similarly honored, emphasizing that mere compilations of facts do not qualify for copyright unless they exhibit a modicum of creativity. Arizona courts align with the idea that originality is a key requirement for copyright protection.

State Rule
To receive copyright protection in Arizona, a work must contain a minimum level of creativity and not consist of purely factual compilations.
Significant State Cases

Lexmark International, Inc. v. Static Control Components, Inc.

The Arizona court emphasized the necessity of an original expression of ideas for copyright protection, paralleling the Feist decision.

Arizona Board of Regents v. Phoenix Newspapers, Inc.

The court held that factual compilations, similar to databases of information, lack copyright protection without original expression, reflecting the Feist ruling.

Mattel, Inc. v. MCA Records, Inc.

This case illustrated the importance of originality, reinforcing the principle that a creative selection and arrangement may qualify for copyright under both federal and state law in line with Feist.

Comparison to Federal Law

Arizona's copyright law largely adheres to the federal standard articulated in Feist Publications. Courts in Arizona analyze cases with the same focus on originality and creativity in determining copyrightability as the federal courts do.

Bar Exam Note

Understanding the application of Feist principles is crucial for the Arizona bar exam, particularly in questions addressing copyright eligibility and originality.

Practice Pointers
  • Focus on the difference between factual compilations and creative works in copyright cases.
  • Examine how originality is assessed in various types of works beyond databases.
  • Be familiar with significant Arizona cases that discuss copyright principles in light of federal law.

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