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