Free DMCA Counter-Notice Template Generator
Dispute a wrongful DMCA takedown. Generate a legally compliant counter-notification under 17 U.S.C. § 512(g).
Only file a counter-notice if you have a good faith belief the takedown was a mistake. False claims are perjury and may result in legal action.
Counter-Notice Requirements Under 17 U.S.C. § 512(g)
A valid counter-notification must include these elements.
Removed Material
URLs or description of content that was taken down
Good Faith Statement
Sworn belief the removal was a mistake or misidentification
Jurisdiction Consent
Agreement to be sued in federal court if complainant files
Contact Information
Your name, address, and email (required, cannot be anonymous)
Signature
Physical or electronic signature under penalty of perjury
DMCA Counter-Notice Timeline
1. You file counter-notice
Send to the same service provider that removed your content. They must promptly forward it to the original complainant.
2. 10-14 day waiting period
The original complainant has 10-14 business days to file a federal lawsuit seeking a court order against you.
3. Content restored (or lawsuit)
If no lawsuit is filed, the provider should restore your content. If they do sue, you'll need to defend yourself in court.
DMCA Counter-Notice FAQ
- What is a DMCA counter-notice?
- A DMCA counter-notice is a legal response to a takedown notice under 17 U.S.C. § 512(g). It's filed when you believe your content was wrongly removed due to mistake or misidentification. Filing triggers a 10-14 day window for the original complainant to sue, after which your content should be restored.
- When should I file a counter-notice?
- File a counter-notice only if you have a good faith belief the takedown was wrong — for example, you own the copyright, have a license, or the content qualifies as fair use. Don't file if the takedown was legitimate, as false counter-notices constitute perjury.
- What happens after I file a counter-notice?
- The service provider forwards your counter-notice to the original complainant. They have 10-14 business days to file a lawsuit seeking a court order. If they don't, the provider should restore your content. If they do sue, you'll need to defend yourself in federal court.
- Why is my address required?
- The DMCA requires you to consent to federal court jurisdiction. Your address determines which federal district court has jurisdiction over any potential lawsuit. This is a legal requirement for a valid counter-notice.
- Can I file anonymously?
- No. Unlike DMCA takedown notices, counter-notices require your real contact information because you're consenting to be sued. The original complainant receives your name and address. There's no legal way around this requirement.
- What if the complainant sues me?
- If sued, you'll need to defend your position in federal court. This typically requires an attorney. Common defenses include proving ownership, license, or fair use. If you're unsure about your legal position, consult a lawyer before filing.