Overview
An independent studio specializing in scripted and unscripted series, animation, and digital content is seeking a skilled legal drafting professional for a project-based engagement. This role supports growth across television, film, and a newly launched music label.
This is a remote-first, 1099 independent contractor position through December 31, 2026, with occasional travel related to production or key milestones. There is no guarantee of extension beyond the engagement term.
Responsibilities
Television & Motion Picture Development
- Draft option agreements for literary works and screenplays (animated and live-action)
- Conduct complex chain of title reviews
- Draft development agreements for writers, producers, and showrunners
- Prepare legal documentation for network/streaming submissions, series pickups, and international co-productions
Production Business Affairs & Talent Relations
- Draft cast and crew agreements (including Series Regulars, Above-the-Line, Below-the-Line, and specialized stunt/minor contracts)
- Support senior staff attorneys by drafting development, production, and distribution agreements
- Prepare all pertinent exhibits and addenda
- Conduct research and provide recommendations regarding SAG-AFTRA, WGA, DGA, Teamsters, and IATSE regulations and issues
- Review and prepare production vendor agreements
Music Label Launch & Rights Management
- Draft core template agreements for the music label, including contracts for Artists, Producers, and Writers
- Draft sync licenses, obtain music clearances, and master use agreements
- Draft distribution and digital platform agreements
Intellectual Property & Distribution
- Perform fair use analysis and manage music/footage clearances for Errors & Omissions compliance
- Advise on copyright and trademark filings
- Draft domestic and international licensing and distribution agreements
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active member in good standing with a state bar (California preferred)
- 3–5+ years of transactional experience, including at least 1 year in entertainment law
- Experience in television studio legal affairs and/or music industry strongly preferred
- Familiarity with streaming platforms and guild regulations (SAG, WGA, DGA)
- Ability to draft precise legal language from complex commercial terms with minimal supervision
- Strategic mindset to identify legal risks and propose pragmatic, business-aligned solutions
Compensation & Engagement Details
- Project-based engagement through December 31, 2026
- Independent contractor status (1099)
- Remote-first work with occasional travel
- No guarantee of extension beyond the engagement term
Location
Remote-first with occasional travel as needed for production or key milestones