
Ever signed a brand deal involving AI-generated content? Built a content strategy around AI tools? This guide breaks down exactly where the law stands on AI and copyright in 2026 — and what it means for your business as a UGC creator.
This guide covers:
The human authorship requirement — why it matters and what it means for your content
Thaler v. Perlmutter (2025) — the landmark ruling now settled as federal law
The AI Creativity Continuum — full protection, partial protection, or none at all
Zarya of the Dawn — the Copyright Office's real-world gray zone ruling
How AI copyright status directly affects your UGC contracts and licensing rights
Why entirely AI-generated content may leave you with nothing to license
What your brand deal contracts should say about AI-generated content in 2026
The evolving legislative landscape — what's coming next
A complete checklist for protecting your AI-assisted content
Presented by Dawn Cheryl Kohl, JD — legal educator and UGC content creator.
*This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. The AI landscape and platform terms and conditions change frequently. AI is an incredibly fast moving area of law, verify current status and consult a qualified intellectual property attorney before entering into any content licensing or ownership agreement.
*A note on methodology: This guide was developed using AI-assisted research and drafting tools under the editorial direction and legal review of Dawn Cheryl Kohl, JD. This approach allows for comprehensive, current coverage of a rapidly evolving legal landscape.