Device: timebase corrector (TBC)
Brand/model: AVT-8710
Cost: $200
Where to buyL
www.bhphotovideoc.om
A TBC is the only way to 100% foolproof remove copy protection. Copy protection is an artificial error injected into a video stream. A TBC was created to remove video errors, and it kills both actual and artificial ones.
Some of those "copy remover" devices work to varying degrees, often costing $50-100 or more, and only work part of the time. I have three of those, asking $20 each, if you want one. I will not guarantee it will remove all protection on all tapes. Anybody that does make such a guarantee with a non-TBC device is either lying or they're a moron. Some capture cards and DVD recorders natively ignore such protections, or can be hacked to do so.
I have a Datavideo TBC-1000, too, which is better than the AVT-8710, but at $100 more cost, and mine has started to deteriorate after 6-7 years of use. It happened after I moved, so it may have been damaged.
Your other option is to find somebody that can do the transfer work for you. Usually, I'd volunteer, but I know I can't make your 3-week deadline (although I'm open to bribery).