San Diego, CA asked in Entertainment / Sports and Intellectual Property for California

Q: Script release form question. I'm wanting to know if this is stating that the prodco can take my material w/out paying.

It seems the first sentence states they can use my material w/out compensation & that I waive any rights to it. Is this true? This is what it says.

"I am submitting material to you herewith. I hereby irrevocably waive, release and relinquish any and all claims which I or any person, firm or corporation acting on my behalf may now or hereafter have against you, your successors, assignees and licensees, and your and their respective officers, employees and representatives, for any use or alleged use that you or your successors, assignees or licensees may make of this material. I expressly agree that your decision as to whether you or your successors, assignees or licensees have used all or any part of this material and as to the compensation or other consideration, if any, which should be paid to me therefore, shall be conclusive and binding upon me and all persons, firms and corporations acting on my behalf."

1 Lawyer Answer
Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
Answered
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in California

A: That sounds like a terrible contract for a writer to sign as it gives away all rights to a script for any price set by the buyer. Why would you sign that? More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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