From Script to Screen. We Protect the Vision.
Filmmaking is art, but production is business. We handle the contracts, clearances, and negotiations so you can focus on calling "Action."
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Your Production Legal "Quarterback"
Getting a film or television show made is a miracle of logistics, creativity, and finance. But one missing signature, one unclear clause, or a break in the “chain of title” can derail a project before it even premieres.
At Saffold Law, we serve as Production Counsel for independent filmmakers, production companies, and content creators. We don’t just review contracts; we structure the legal backbone of your production, ensuring that your project is delivered on time, on budget, and legally secure for distribution.
The #1 Dealbreaker: Chain of Title
Before a streamer or studio buys your film, the first thing they check is the “Chain of Title.” This is the history of ownership for your script and story.
If there is a gap, you can’t sell your movie.
We meticulously secure and review:
Underlying Rights:
Did you properly option the book or article the script is based on?
Writer Agreements
Did every writer sign a “Certificate of Authorship”?
Life Rights
If your story is based on real people, do you have the rights to portray them?
We ensure your Chain of Title is bulletproof so your distribution deal doesn’t fall apart at the finish line.
The "Net Profits" Trap (Hollywood Accounting)
You’ve heard the horror stories: a movie makes millions, but the profit participants get zero because of “Hollywood Accounting.”
When a studio or distributor offers you a percentage of “Net Profits,” they often define “Net” in a way that ensures the project never technically makes money.
We fight against this.
- Defined Gross: We negotiate for a share of “Gross Proceeds” or “Adjusted Gross” whenever possible, which is much harder for the studio to manipulate.
- Audit Rights: We ensure you have the right to inspect their books to make sure you are being paid what you are owed.
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Comprehensive Production Legal Services
We support projects through every stage of the lifecycle: Development, Production, and Distribution.
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1. Development & Rights Acquisition
Before the cameras roll, you need to own the story.
- Option Agreements: Securing the exclusive rights to adapt a book or screenplay.
- Shopping Agreements: Giving producers the right to pitch a project to financiers.
2. Production Legal (Above & Below the Line)
When you enter pre-production, the paperwork explodes. We manage:
- Talent Agreements: Negotiating contracts for actors, directors, and writers (SAG-AFTRA, WGA, DGA compliance).
- Crew & Vendor Contracts: Securing key crew and renting equipment legally.
- Clearances: Reviewing scripts/cuts to ensure you aren’t infringing on trademarks (essential for E&O Insurance).
3. Distribution & Sales
Making the movie is only half the battle; getting it seen is the other.
- Sales Agent Agreements: Hiring the right rep to sell your film at festivals (Sundance, SXSW).
- Distribution Deals: Negotiating terms with streamers (Netflix, Hulu) and theatrical distributors.
4. New Media & Digital Content
The screen is changing. We represent YouTubers and digital producers in:
- Brand Deals: Ensuring FTC compliance and fair compensation.
- Podcast Production: IP ownership and ad revenue splits.
What We Fight For (Your Outcomes)
Beyond just getting the movie made, we fight for the things that define your career:
- Creative Control: Protecting the Director’s Cut or final approval on casting.
- Credits: Ensuring your name appears on screen exactly where it should (single card vs. shared card).
- Backend Points: Making sure your profit participation is real and collectible.
- Sequel & Spinoff Rights: Ensuring that if your indie film becomes a franchise, you are part of it.
How We Build Your Strategy
We act as an extension of your production team.
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1. The Setup
We form the single-purpose production entity (LLC) to insulate you from liability and prepare the investor agreements (PPMs) to raise funds legally.
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2. The Shoot
We are on call during production to handle emergencies—whether an actor walks off set or a location permit gets pulled.
3. The Delivery
We prepare the “Delivery Schedule” required by distributors, ensuring all legal binders, music cue sheets, and releases are organized and ready for handover.
Get Your Project Made. The Right Way.
Whether you are optioning your first script or locking a distribution deal for your feature film, Saffold Law provides the industry expertise you need.
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