Producing for TV and New Media, 3rd Edition

Chapter 5

Welcome to Reality: Legalities and Rights

Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.

John F. Kennedy

This Chapter’s Talking Points

I.	Own it
II.	If you Don’t Own it, Get Permission to Use it
III.	Protect it
IV.	Double-Check it

I.  Own it

Your idea is a precious commodity. For it to develop, thrive, and ultimately succeed, this idea must be protected. It’s the producer’s responsibility to provide this legal protection. With a common-sense understanding of entertainment law, and an awareness of the contracts, agreements, and rules that are integral in each stage of producing your project, you can provide this protection. A deal can start with a hearty handshake and a verbal promise, but ...