The Murnau Foundation is the holder of all copyrights to its stocks, and thus to the exploitation rights. This catalogue of rights has resulted in a considerable need for clarification. For legal defence, it is often necessary to resort to the extensive archived documents pertaining to each individual film. This applies in particular where protection from illegal domestic and foreign exploitation of the films is concerned, which is becoming easier and more frequent due to the technical possibilities for copying and distribution using modern digital media.

The foundation’s legal department not only manages and documents the rights, it is also involved - if necessary, also with legal action - in the acquisition or re-acquisition of rights. To this end, contracts are also concluded for restoration projects or for soundtracks for silent films and also the examination and approval of the increasing number of remake applications.