New York Entertainment Production Attorneys

Entertainment productions involve numerous legal requirements that must be addressed throughout development, filming, and post-production. Our attorneys provide guidance at every stage to help keep projects compliant and on schedule.

Our services include:

Script Clearance & Copyright Review
Ensuring original content is legally protected and free from potential infringement claims.

Talent & Crew Agreements
Drafting and negotiating contracts for cast, crew, and on-screen talent to define rights, responsibilities, and compensation.

Location Releases & Equipment Contracts
Securing permissions and agreements for filming locations, production rentals, and equipment use.

Music Licensing & Synchronization Rights
Handling the rights required for music, soundtracks, and synchronization with visual media.

Union & Guild Compliance
Navigating regulations and agreements involving SAG-AFTRA, WGA, DGA, and other industry guilds governing compensation, working conditions, and credits.

Proper rights management and legal documentation are essential for financing, distribution, and long-term project success. Our attorneys help ensure that productions have the necessary legal protections in place.

Our services include:

Chain of Title Documentation
Confirming clear ownership and proper rights transfers for scripts, music, and other creative content.

Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance Support
Ensuring productions secure appropriate coverage to protect against legal claims related to intellectual property or defamation.

Publicity Rights & Appearance Releases
Protecting productions from claims related to image, likeness, or performance rights.

Whether producing a feature film, television series, documentary, music video, podcast, or commercial project, our legal guidance helps keep productions compliant and protected.

Many production delays and distribution problems stem from preventable legal issues. Addressing these risks early can save time, money, and significant stress.

Common production legal mistakes include:

• Incomplete chain of title, creating uncertainty around ownership rights
• Missing appearance releases from on-screen individuals
• Improper music licensing, leading to potential copyright claims
• Union or guild non-compliance, which may result in penalties or production disruptions
• Insurance gaps, particularly the absence of Errors & Omissions (E&O) coverage required for distribution

Working with experienced entertainment counsel early in production helps avoid these costly mistakes.

Producers and creators choose Pardalis & Nohavicka for strategic legal guidance tailored to the realities of entertainment production.

Experience across film, TV, music, and digital media
Our attorneys advise on a wide range of creative projects and production models.

New York–based, industry-focused counsel
We provide legal insight informed by the New York entertainment and media landscape.

Practical, production-savvy legal advice
Our guidance reflects the operational realities of film sets, studios, and content production.

Proactive risk prevention—not just contract review
We identify potential legal risks early to help productions stay on track.

Trusted by creators at every budget level
From independent productions to established media companies, we support clients across the entertainment industry.

Do I need legal review for every contract in production?

A: Yes. Contracts for cast, crew, locations, music, and licensing all carry potential legal risks. Proper legal review helps prevent disputes and liability.

What is “chain of title” and why is it important?

A: Chain of title confirms clear ownership of creative content and rights transfers. Distributors and investors require it to ensure there are no competing claims.

How do you handle union or guild compliance?

A: We review contracts and production practices to ensure compliance with SAG-AFTRA, WGA, DGA, and other industry guild rules governing wages, working conditions, and credits.

Can you assist with music licensing for film or TV projects?

A: Yes. We help secure synchronization, master use, and performance rights to ensure music is legally cleared for use in your project.

Do independent productions need E&O insurance?

A: Yes. Errors & Omissions insurance is often required by distributors and streaming platforms before releasing a film or series.

What legal documents do distributors require before release?

A: Distributors typically require chain of title documentation, appearance releases, music licenses, E&O insurance, and proof of copyright ownership.

When should a production lawyer be hired?

A: Ideally during the development phase. Early legal guidance helps avoid rights issues, contract disputes, and compliance problems later in production.

Can you represent productions outside New York?

A: Yes. While our firm is based in New York, we frequently advise productions operating in other states and international markets.

What legal issues arise with streaming platforms?

A: Streaming platforms often require strict documentation, licensing rights, and compliance with distribution agreements before accepting content for release.