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When do I need to involve an Entertainment Attorney?

Author: adminOn: Feb 25Categories: 1

In gatherings of writers and filmmakers I often hear “I have a project in the works and have been thinking I might need to involve an entertainment attorney. When should I do that?” Often the unfortunate answer is “months ago.”...

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Pre-Pitch Hold Harmless Agreement – A License to Steal?

Author: adminOn: Jan 21Categories: 1

I recently received a question about a producer requiring a “Hold Harmless Agreement” or similar “Release” before accepting a script or agreeing to hear a writer’s story pitch. The question was whether this was a legitimate...

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Using the intellectual property of others? Permission is the key!

Author: adminOn: Oct 24Categories: Copyright, Music Licensing, Screenwriting

In National Lampoon’s Animal House, several imposing gents ask a group of scared young frat boys, [in a deep imposing voice], “May we dance with your dates?”  The would-be dancers had the class to ask politely before holding close...

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What is the “Public Domain,” and how do I get there?

Author: adminOn: Oct 21Categories: Copyright, Novel Writing, Public Domain, Screenwriting

Writers are always trying to crack that next great story – trying to invent a cast of compelling characters, set in a compelling world, propelled through a dynamic plot that’s sure to engage the reader – be it a movie-exec, script...

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Copyrights and Trademarks and Patents! Oh My!

Author: adminOn: Sep 16Categories: Copyright, Screenwriting, Trademark

I recently heard a member of an up and coming band discussing the band’s soon-to-be-released second album, … cd, … simultaneous release of approximately twelve musical mp3’s – until I pass from this earth, could we all...

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Writing Partners – a/k/a YOUR Business Partnership

Author: adminOn: Sep 09Categories: Copyright, Screenwriting

So you and your writing partner have just polished off that first draft – she wrote the jokes and you wrote the drama. Or the two of you have just pitched to that studio with the winged horse, galloping up the mountain with the halo of stars, and...

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WGA versus U.S. Copyright Office Registration

Author: adminOn: Sep 04Categories: Copyright, Screenwriting

Screenwriters often question whether to register their scripts, frequently resulting in conflicting information.  I have heard various producers, agents and consultants give disparate advice, including “don’t bother,” “theft...

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