FAQs

An entertainment lawyer represents and protects client’s interests in the entertainment industry. The entertainment industry, although not seen as such, is an expansive legal field of intellectual property transformed into a medium for consumption. Entertainment lawyers are often well-versed in contract law and have knowledge in many other legal areas including labor and litigation. 

 Yes, whenever your rights are involved you always need a lawyer. From something as small as split sheets on a recording to a multi-level global distribution deal, you always need to define, understand, and protect your rights. An entertainment lawyer is there to ensure that your rights are protected. 

Composition copyright covers the components of the song itself. Composition copyrights usually apply to songwriters and producers as these rights cover the lyrics of the song and the musical arrangements of a song. A sound recording copyright covers the finished composition of the song. Simply put, composition copyrights go to the songwriter and producers, and sound recording copyrights go to the musician or performer of the song. Many times, however, the musician is signed with a label, and their copyright automatically vests to the label that the musician is signed to. 

Royalties are rights that you own over different aspects of intellectual property. There are many types of royalties and they all reflect what portion of the intellectual property you own. Common types of royalties are mechanical royalties, reproduction royalties, performance royalties, and synchronization royalties. 

Mechanical royalties cover the distribution and reproduction of the musical arrangement. Reproduction royalties cover streaming, broadcasting, radio, and live performances. Synchronization royalties cover the use of the musical arrangement in tv shows, films, commercials, and other visuals accompanied by the musical arrangement. 

Simply put, publishing royalties/publishing rights come from the composition and musical components of the song. Recording royalties/recording rights come from the performance and song recording.

Yes, you have a right to your image under common law and in the majority of jurisdictions. The distinction is if your image or likeness is used for monetary gain by a business. In Texas, and in the majority of states, you can freely record an individual however they can not use that image for a monetary gain or aspect. If a business or anyone violates the right to your image you may be entitled to compensation.  

Talen agents or Sports agents are paid by the terms of their agreement. Agents are typically paid on commission however each agreement is different and you should always have a lawyer review any contract you make with your agent or any agency. 

The producers typically own all the rights to the film and can distribute those rights to whoever they want. Producers are in charge of determining the budget, production schedule, and directors, producers can enter into a services agreement that will determine how much control the producer has over the film. These agreements are voluntary but often directors and scriptwriters require this agreement so that the producers do not become overbearing on the film creation process.