Film and Television Law Attorneys

Film and television productions involve numerous legal and contractual considerations from development through post-production and distribution. Our attorneys help clients navigate these complexities by preparing, reviewing, and negotiating the essential agreements needed to move projects forward.

We assist with matters including:

Production Legal
Drafting and negotiating contracts for cast and crew, location releases, vendor agreements, appearance releases, and production clearances.

Rights Acquisition & Chain of Title
Securing literary options, story rights, life rights, and copyright transfers to confirm clear ownership of the underlying intellectual property.

Financing & Investment
Structuring co-production agreements, investor documentation, and financing arrangements that comply with applicable securities and entertainment regulations.

Distribution & Licensing
Negotiating agreements with distributors, broadcasters, and streaming platforms to define rights for domestic and international distribution.

Guild & Union Compliance
Ensuring productions comply with SAG-AFTRA, DGA, and WGA rules governing credits, compensation, working conditions, and residuals.

Intellectual property rights are the foundation of every film and television project. Without clear ownership and licensing structures, productions may face distribution delays, legal disputes, or financing obstacles.

Our attorneys assist clients with:

• Resolving copyright ownership disputes
• Addressing joint authorship issues between collaborators
• Structuring work-for-hire agreements versus creator-owned content arrangements
• Conducting trademark clearance for film titles, characters, and branding
• Negotiating music synchronization and master use licenses
• Performing fair use analysis, particularly for documentaries and archival content

By ensuring that intellectual property rights are properly secured and documented, we help productions maintain a clear legal foundation throughout development and distribution.

Film and television projects are subject to a range of legal requirements involving employment law, intellectual property, union rules, and contractual obligations. Our attorneys stay current on these regulations to help clients avoid costly delays or disputes.

We assist clients in:

• Navigating state and federal laws affecting film and television production
• Protecting intellectual property through copyright and trademark registration
• Managing licensing, clearance, and royalty obligations
• Ensuring fair credit, compensation, and residual structures for key contributors

By maintaining compliance at every stage of production, we help safeguard both the creative integrity and financial stability of each project.

Our film and television attorneys represent a wide range of professionals and organizations throughout the entertainment industry.

We represent:

• Independent filmmakers
• Production companies
• Screenwriters and show creators
• Actors and directors
• Executive producers
• Digital-first content creators transitioning into film and television

We tailor legal strategies to the specific needs of each client, whether launching an independent project or negotiating large-scale studio agreements.

Even experienced creators and producers can encounter legal problems if critical steps are overlooked during development or production. Our attorneys help clients avoid common legal mistakes such as:

• Proceeding without a complete chain of title
• Using music or footage without proper licenses
• Misclassifying cast or crew as independent contractors
• Ignoring union requirements until late in production
• Signing distribution agreements without audit rights or revenue transparency

By identifying potential risks early, we help productions avoid costly disputes and distribution delays.

Film and television projects often involve complex negotiations among producers, studios, financiers, and talent. Our legal team combines deep entertainment law experience with practical industry knowledge to support clients throughout these negotiations.

We have represented clients across independent film, television, and streaming productions—helping them secure intellectual property rights, close financing agreements, and distribute content domestically and internationally.

Our goal is to ensure that your project stays on schedule, on budget, and legally protected from development through release.

What types of agreements do I need before starting a film or television project?

You should have production contracts, cast and crew agreements, location releases, music licenses, and insurance coverage in place before filming begins.

How can I protect my script or idea?

Register your screenplay or treatment with the U.S. Copyright Office and maintain documentation of drafts and communications to demonstrate ownership.

What should I look for in a distribution agreement?

Carefully review the rights granted, revenue splits, territory limitations, and reporting obligations. An attorney should review any distribution contract before it is signed.

Do I need legal counsel for guild or union compliance?

Yes. SAG-AFTRA, DGA, and WGA each have specific requirements and penalties for violations. Legal guidance helps productions remain compliant.

Do I need a lawyer before pitching a TV show?

While not legally required, consulting an attorney before pitching can help protect your intellectual property, clarify ownership rights, and ensure any submission agreements are fair.

What is chain of title and why does it matter for distribution?

Chain of title is the documented history of ownership of a film’s underlying intellectual property. Distributors and insurers require clear chain-of-title documentation before releasing a project.

Can I use real people or brands in my film?

Using real individuals, trademarks, or brand references can raise legal issues involving privacy, defamation, or trademark law. Legal review helps determine when releases or permissions are necessary.

How do profit participation and backend deals work?

Backend participation agreements allow talent or creators to receive a percentage of profits or revenue generated by the project. These arrangements require careful drafting to ensure accurate accounting and payment.

What legal documents are required for E&O insurance?

Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance typically requires documentation such as chain-of-title records, talent agreements, location releases, music licenses, and clearance reports before coverage is issued.