MOTUnation.com

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:
Yep. Paid off rather well in the end...

Then I guess that's the thing to do.

If it's a stinky little local spot, just don't sign away your broadcast and try to make sure the PRO pays for the market area for that kind of spot. BMI stopped paying some local market spots here in So Cal. If it's a national spot, then get a lawyer or someone you trust who's been around that block.

Yeah, a stinky local schmokel thing might not need a lawyer, but just be sure the use is limited to the immediate production and not perpetual for any use. That would be the most basic protection I can think of.

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:

PoliticalBonobo wrote: Did everyone here honestly lawyer up for their first few-thousand dollar project?

Yep. Paid off rather well in the end...

Oh hell yes!

You'll wait a long time for someone to call you back.

When you receive their contract, make an appointment with a qualified attorney to have it looked at. This will not cost what you think. If that person needs to go to bat for you, expect to be charged a retainer or negotiate a percentage deal with the attorney.

ESPECIALLY for broadcast stuff!

OK, we've provided you with the bow and arrow. Now let's hunt some (w)ork!

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:
The deeper question here is one of negotiation tactics, and those I will not share.

Not even a little tip? An anecdote or relevant story from experience?



That skill is not one of my strong characteristics, unfortunately.

Thanks, guys. Sounds like lawyer review is worth doing despite the size of this job. I will find someone.

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:If it's a national spot, then get a lawyer or someone you trust who's been around that block.

It's national. And that being said, could I contact your lawyer? I'm guessing this isn't state-specific, so he'd be able to work with me remotely (?). I will also try some local offices.

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:

PoliticalBonobo wrote: Did everyone here honestly lawyer up for their first few-thousand dollar project?

Yep. Paid off rather well in the end...

Oh hell yes!

You'll wait a long time for someone to call you back.

When you receive their contract, make an appointment with a qualified attorney to have it looked at. This will not cost what you think. If that person needs to go to bat for you, expect to be charged a retainer or negotiate a percentage deal with the attorney.

Hopefully, you have some good local recommendations. Otherwise, call the local Bar Association. Most (all?) have a lawyer's referral service — the one where I live sets up a one-time consultation for a flat fee. I've been pleased the few times I've used it.

mikehalloran wrote:...call the local Bar Association. Most (all?) have a lawyer's referral service — the one where I live sets up a one-time consultation for a flat fee. I've been pleased the few times I've used it.

Yep!