What is the difference between "business advice" and "legal advice"?
The Guild is able to offer business advice to its members, but not legal advice.
Business advice includes, but is not limited to: reviewing members’ unsigned contracts, advising them on relevant industry standards, explaining the inner workings of theatrical business relationships, assisting in the use of the Guild’s model contracts, and advising on how to register a copyright or submit to a festival.
Legal advice involves, but is not limited to: reviewing signed contracts, explaining the rights and obligations of the parties under an agreement, as well as speaking to or negotiating with others on behalf of an individual.
While Guild lawyers can explain general legal concepts and principles, they are not permitted to provide a legal opinion as to a member’s particular rights and obligations under the law.
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Can I ask for business advice without being a member?
We are unable to provide any business advice or answer business related questions unless you are a member of the Guild. Once a member, you can speak to one of our staff lawyers. Please feel free to visit our Why Should You Join page to explore if ...
How do I get business advice from the Guild?
Every Guild member has access to the Business Affairs department. Members can reach the department by visiting the Business Affairs Help Desk, by phone (212-398-9366), or by fax (212-244-0420). You can also email your question to ...
I need some financial advice. Can the Guild help me?
The Guild only offers business advice regarding your Playwriting career. However, as a member of the Guild, you have access to the programs and services of the Actors Fund. Please use their Managing Money and Financial Assistance pages, as they ...
What's the difference between Associate and Member levels?
In 2010, the Guild’s Council voted to revise the categories of membership to more accurately reflect the landscape of American theatre today. There are now two levels of membership, Member, and Associate. To qualify for the new Member level, a writer ...
Can Business Affairs review my clients contract?
We can only review your clients contract if they are a member of The Dramatists Guild. To become a member, your client needs to prove that they are a writer for the theatre. They can join at 2 member levels: Member or Associate. The Member level is ...