A US Copyright lawyer will make it his or her job to protect you and your work. Your lawyer will not only file the copyright for you, but will also advise you as far as the benefits of copyright can take you. For example, let's say that you write a song that every record label wants to be a part of. An experienced copyright lawyer will be able to dictate the terms and agreements that will ensure you not only are paid what you deserve, but that you also keep your writers rights. This is very important and very difficult to do if you are on your own.
Being familiar with legal lingo is also key to keeping your rights. If you are unaware of the difference between terms such as "usage" and "full" rights, then a Copyright lawyer is highly suggested. Usage translates to a one time use only, while full rights mean that the buyer now has 100% control of the work, including due credit. Many people have fallen into legal holes because of misconseptions - each word in a legally binding contract means something important. A copyright lawyer will be able to explain these terms and even advise you as to a proper course of action.
Not just any lawyer is suggested pertaining to your copyright, but get a lawyer that specializes in the field. Do not use a lawyer that you used in the past because he won your case then - lawyers specialize in different fields. That nice guy who helped you in your car accident most likely is not up to date with recent court decisions that involve the ever changing world of the internet. Copyright lawyers stay current on recent rulings that involve copyright, this means that they know how to do their job.
