The U.S. Copyright Office’s Copyright Claims Board (CCB) Team is being honored in Category 2: Delivering Excellence in Digital Services for creating the nation’s first fully virtual small claims tribunal, expanding access to justice through an innovative, user-friendly digital platform.

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Established through the 2020 CASE Act, the CCB provides a groundbreaking, cost-effective alternative to federal court for resolving copyright disputes. Designed for creatives, small businesses, and individuals, the tribunal allows users to protect their works without the steep costs and procedural complexity of traditional litigation.

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At the heart of this service is eCCB, a digital case management platform that streamlines filing, case tracking, and participation in virtual proceedings, removing geographic and logistical barriers. The team also developed a comprehensive 22-chapter online handbook to guide users step by step, partnered with pro bono organizations to assist self-represented parties, and built an accessible website (ccb.gov) offering educational resources and practical tools.

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With filing costs as low as $100, compared to more than $400 in federal court, the CCB has created a realistic path to justice for creators who previously could not afford legal recourse. Since its launch in June 2022, more than 1,200 claims have been filed by participants across 47 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and internationally. Cases have spanned photography, music, writing, visual art, and more, with over 80 percent of participants representing themselves - underscoring the accessibility and user-friendly nature of the platform.

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By dramatically lowering the barrier to entry, the CCB has empowered thousands of creators to enforce their rights and resolve disputes fairly and efficiently, demonstrating how smart, inclusive digital service delivery can expand access to justice nationwide.