Final answer:
Maria should consult an attorney skilled in copyright law to determine if the nickname she wishes to use from a popular book series can be included in her story without infringing on copyright.
Step-by-step explanation:
Maria is writing a fictional story and is considering using a nickname from a very popular book series, which may raise copyright concerns. She needs to determine whether her use is lawful. To address this concern, Maria should contact an attorney specialized in copyright law. Copyrights provide legal protection to original works of authorship and prevent unauthorized copying for commercial purposes.
While some uses may fall under 'fair use,' this is a legal grey area that requires professional interpretation. An attorney can provide guidance on whether the use of the nickname in Maria's story could potentially infringe on the original author's intellectual property and how to proceed without risking legal action.