How to Get Film Production Lawyer Jobs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you interested in the film industry and legal issues? If so, becoming a film production lawyer might be the perfect career path for you. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of becoming a film production lawyer and how you can start your career in the industry.
Who is a Film Production Lawyer?
A film production lawyer is a legal professional who works with film producers on various legal matters related to film production and distribution. Film production lawyers help producers manage taxes, negotiate contracts with cast and crew, and deal with any legal issues that may arise during the production process.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Film Production Lawyer Jobs
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Aspiring film production lawyers should first earn a bachelor’s degree. You don’t necessarily have to major in pre-law courses – political science, English, and history are valid options as well. These fields of study teach students how to think, read critically, and construct convincing arguments using analytical skills.
Step 2: Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is a standardized multiple-choice exam approved by the American Bar Association. It consists of five parts: logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, variable section (unscored), and a writing sample. Aspiring lawyers need to take the LSAT and obtain a high score to get admitted to law school.
Step 3: Attend Law School
Entertainment law schools are very difficult to get into. They require a high GPA, outstanding letters of reference, and a high score on the LSAT. While attending law school, you should choose courses that are related to entertainment and media law.
Step 4: Pass the Bar Exam
After graduating from law school, you need to pass the bar exam to become a licensed attorney. The exam is administered by each state and determines where you’ll be able to practice law. Most aspiring entertainment law attorneys take the exam in California, Tennessee, or New York.
Step 5: Gain Experience
You should start looking for internships or entry-level jobs in law firms that specialize in entertainment law. Practical work experience is crucial to landing a full-time job as a film production lawyer.
Step 6: Get a Certificate in Media Law
While working as an intern or entry-level attorney, you should obtain a certificate in media law to expand your knowledge of this field. This certification will make you more attractive to potential employers in the film industry.
Step 7: Join Professional Associations
You should join professional associations such as the Entertainment Law Section of the American Bar Association and the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences to network with other professionals in the industry.
Step 8: Build a Strong Portfolio
Your portfolio should showcase your legal work in the entertainment industry, including contracts you’ve negotiated and any legal disputes you’ve resolved. Make sure to tailor your portfolio to the needs of potential employers.
Step 9: Apply for Jobs
You can apply for film production lawyer jobs through job boards, law firms, or directly to production companies. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the needs of the job listing.
Why Someone Can Hire You As a Film Production Lawyer?
Film production involves complex legal issues such as contracts, copyright issues, and location permits. Producers need a film production lawyer to navigate these legal challenges and ensure that their projects are compliant with the law. With a background in media law and experience in the industry, you can help producers create successful films that don’t run afoul of the law.
Job Role of a Film Production Lawyer
As a film production lawyer, your job responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing and drafting contracts with cast and crew members
- Resolving legal disputes during production
- Assisting with copyright and trademark issues
- Managing taxes and financial reporting
- Negotiating with other companies regarding distribution deals and licenses
In Conclusion
If you’re passionate about film and legal issues, becoming a film production lawyer might be the perfect career for you. Follow these steps to gain the necessary education and experience to land your dream job.
FAQs
Q1: Is it necessary to have a Bachelor’s degree in pre-law for becoming a film production lawyer?
A: No, you don’t necessarily have to major in pre-law courses to become a film production lawyer. Political science, English, and history are valid options as well.
Q2: Can I become a film production lawyer without attending law school?
A: No, you need to attend law school and earn a Juris Doctor to become a licensed attorney.
Q3: What are some top law schools for entertainment law?
A: Harvard, UCLA, USC Gould, Columbia, and NYU are some of the top law schools for entertainment law.
Q4: Do I need to get certified in media law to become a film production lawyer?
A: No, it’s not necessary to get certified in media law, but it can make you more attractive to potential employers.
Q5: What should I include in my portfolio as a film production lawyer?
A: Your portfolio should include examples of your legal work in the entertainment industry, such as contracts you’ve negotiated and legal disputes you’ve resolved.