Filmmakers
Filmmakers in California are protected by a wide range of laws designed to help them realize their creative vision while safeguarding their legal and financial interests. For over two decades, independent producers, directors, and content creators have turned to us for strategic legal support at every stage of the filmmaking process. We have become trusted advocates for filmmakers working in features, television, commercials, documentaries, and digital media.
Whether our clients are first-time directors or seasoned producers, we assist them with every legal and business aspect of production, including:
Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts with cast, crew, financiers, distributors, and vendors
Securing and protecting intellectual property rights, including script options, life rights, and music clearances
Entity formation and production structuring to protect personal assets and optimize financing
Navigating union and guild requirements, including SAG-AFTRA, DGA, WGA, and IATSE compliance
Resolving disputes related to credit, compensation, and creative control
Ensuring proper rights clearances for locations, trademarks, copyrighted materials, and more
Assisting with fundraising, investment agreements, and co-production deals
Handling insurance, risk management, and liability matters during production
Guiding international filmmakers with immigration, work visas, and cross-border co-productions
Advising on distribution, licensing, and monetization strategies across traditional and digital platforms
Litigation and dispute resolution, including representation in matters involving breach of contract, copyright infringement, defamation, profit participation, and other production-related conflicts