Production Contracts

[Andrew Patterson]

I'm looking for information regarding what you guys include in Production Contracts. For years, I have had written agreements and short documents that outline what we will provide, etc. But I'm moving into new territory with clients I know little about and want to protect myself more than I have up to this point.

If you have a template or document you could send my way it would be much appreciated. Or if this is the wrong place to ask, please let know where to go.

Thank you, all.
Andrew

patterson at gedmedia dot com

 

[Jack Cooper]

Andrew.

Best to spend a little money now and hire an experienced entertainment attorney to draft a "core" production document that you can modify by "adding" or "removing" sections.

Basic sections you'll need to address are: licensing terms (exclusive, non-exclusive), retention of copyright (or not), payment, default provisions, etc. We have also begun to include, most importantly, a liquidated damages clause. This is a big benefit if the client defaults.

 

[Tim Duran]

Andrew, there are a slew of reference books on this subject. Try Focal Press for one. Nothing but books on film production, acting, etc. The Writer's Store on Westwood Blvd in LA is a mecca for low budget folks. I think they have a web site.

I don't know what your timing is. If it's now, Jack is right. If not, take some time and read the reference materials. That's the only way to get an idea of what you want to put in the contract. Then, once you can talk shop a bit, call the attorney. NOTE: Get a specialist. I'm guessing Oaklahoma doesn't have too many of those shuffling around out there. There are books at Writer's Store on attorneys who specialize in this or that. Better yet, start a new thread called something like "Attorney Needed for a Porducton Contract. Suggestions?" See what Redusers come up with for you.

 

[Brian Merlen]

I would be happy to recommend a great entertainment lawyer, feel free to PM me if interested. Thanks

 

[Rob Gardner]

+1 on the lawyer idea. I have been badly screwed by conracts I never should have signed and I will never do that again. It may seem expensive, but consider the alternative...
Rob

 

[Tim Duran]

Remember, you hire an attorney for the law and format, not for the deal terms. You need to know what parameters you want to work with, then give those to your attorney. Attorneys are notoriously poor business people. Don't go to an attorney without a plan first.