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Entertainment Law in Washington can mean various things; from helping you select and form a business entity, to reviewing and drafting industry contracts, up to and including representing clients in lawsuits involving entertainment issues. You will want to find a qualified attorney to represent you whatever your needs. Call us today for a free consultation.
Establishing a Business You may operate your business or organization under any one of several organizational structures. Each type of structure has certain advantages and disadvantages that should be considered. You should contact an attorney, accountant, financial advisor, banker, or other business or legal advisors to determine which form is most suitable for your business or organization.
A Sole Proprietorship is one individual or married couple in business alone. Sole proprietorships are the most common form of business structure. This type of business is simple to form and operate, and may enjoy greater flexibility of management and fewer legal controls. However, the business owner is personally liable for all debts incurred by the business.
A General Partnership is composed of two or more persons (usually not a married couple) who agree to contribute money, labor, an/or skill to a business. Each partner shares the profits, losses, and management of the business, and each partner is personally and equally liable for debts of the partnership. Formal terms of the partnership are usually contained in a written partnership agreement.
A Limited Partnership* is composed of one or more general partners and one or more limited partners. The general partners manage the business and share fully in its profits and losses. Limited partners share in the profits of the business, but their losses are limited to the extent of their investment. Limited partners are usually not involved in the day-to-day operations of the business.
A Limited Liability Partnership is similar to a General Partnership except that normally a partner does not have personal liability for the negligence of another partner. This business structure is used most commonly by professionals such as accountants and lawyers.
A Corporation is a more complex business structure. As a chartered legal entity, a corporation has certain rights, privileges, and liabilities beyond those of an individual. Doing business as a corporation may yield tax or financial benefits, but these can be offset by other considerations, such as increased licensing fees or decreased personal control. Corporations may be formed for profit or nonprofit purposes.
The Limited Liability Company (LLC) and the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) are the newest forms of business structure in Washington. An LLC or LLP is formed by one or more individuals or entities through a special written agreement. The agreement details the organization of the LLC or LLP, including: provisions for management, assignability of interests, and distribution of profits or losses. Limited liability companies and limited liability partnerships are permitted to engage in any lawful, for profit business or activity other than banking or insurance.
Once you have chosen a business entity there are several agencies you must inform. Some require payment of licensing fees, and filing of documents pertinent to your business. There may also be annual or quarterly reporting requirements which you must adhere to. You may also want to occasionally review a Business Newsletter to keep you informed. We can help you start your business and stay on top of the deadlines.
Contracts in the Entertainment Industry
Whether you are an actor, singer, screenwriter, photographer, director, or producer, it is always a good idea to have your agreements in writing. Some sectors of the industry easily recognize standard contracts. In other sectors a handshake and an oral agreement is the norm. Unfortunately, all too frequently the oral agreement is not enough to make sure your band actually gets paid its percentage of the door, or the royalties paid on that great article you just got published make it into your bank account. Having a contract in place before the work is started can give all the parties piece of mind and help to ensure the terms of the contract become a reality.
Civil Litigation in the Entertainment Industry
If you have ever done work for which you were not properly compensated, or if someone used your work or image without your permission, or if you have a dispute with an agency organization, you may want to hire an attorney to protect your rights. Whether the issue may be resolved through correspondence, mediation, or by trial you want to make sure you are represented by a qualified attorney.
Contact us today for a free consultation
(206) 334-1488
mapleslaw@msn.com
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