Will my scripts be safe in the hands of agents? Will they not publish my books under a new title?

Question

In my previous question, I asked how I could get a reliable and good publisher to publish my books (works of fiction, seven in number). Among the answers I received was the one advising me to get an agent, as publishers no longer take jobs directly from writers.

Now my quesetion is how can I be sure that my scripts would be safe in the hands of the agents. Is there no likelihood that they will try to publish my work under a new title, thus denying me the benefit that would accrue to me from my creativity?

Answer 1

The key with that is to get a reputable agent, one that other folks you know have had good experiences with.

Answer 2

Assuming you are dumb enough to send an agent the only original and that your books/scripts are actually good enough to publish as is, there is still no real likelihood that any real agent will do that. I suggest you seek therapy for your paranoia.

You can copyright whatever you send an agent by putting the copyright symbol, the year and your name at the bottom of each page (or the phrase "Copyright [year][your name]." If your paranoia persistes, register your copyright with the Copyright Office:
http://www.copyright.gov/

Answer 3

As many human beings say all issues are a hazard, extremely getting a e book printed formerly you turn eighteen. All you decide on as a tale and a writer which will a minimum of take you particularly heavily, sometimes the latter could be annoying to locate even for human beings over the age of twenty-one. approximately being the the worlds youngest printed author that's a sprint greater durable, except you own a time device or are a grasp of anceint time magic. There have already been authers as youthful as six years previous, sure they're considered genius. yet back on your question, sure you will possibly be a printed author formerly you turn eighteen.

Answer 4

First do your research. Look for an agent who has experience in the genre for which you're writing and individuals willing to vouch for their services.

Avoid agents who charge a reading fee. Fees for copying and postage for submissions, however, are fairly industry wide

Make sure the agent has a reasonable contract. Current standard is that they will get 15% of whatever they make for you. Have a lawer review this contract.

If you are still concerned you can try the "poor man's copyright" -- namely when you mail your work to your chosen agent, mail a fully dated copy with cover letter to yourself. Leave this untouched and sealed. If you ever have to prove it's your material, the postdate shows when it left your hands originally.

Answer 5

You could patent/copyright your own scripts, to protect your work. I would still contact an agent. Find out what they do to work for and with you. When you do sign a contract with your new agent, read the contract first or go to a lawyer to find out what any of the legal script in the contract that you don't understand means.

Answer 6

Know thy agent. Rule 1. A reputable agent has you sign a contract that forbids them from doing such a thing. If you still have doubts, have a lawyer check it over before you sign. If the agent does not offer you a contract, run, don't walk to the nearest exit.

Answer 7

An agent would have a very short career if he/she tried that kind of thing.

Answer 8

You can get your works copyrighted before sending them out.

Answer 9

They will not steal your work. Make sure the copyright symbol is on it and don't worry.

Answer 10

get a copy write and look into to subscribing to writer's digest they have a lot of good ideas.