| Contracts...
What kinds of contracts will I be asked to sign?
Basically, there are two instances when you will be asked to sign a contract - when you sign with an agent, or when you book a job (are cast in a production).
Not all agents will ask you to sign a contract, but many will. Usually it will be for a year, with the option of either the agent or the talent ending the contract after that time.
The contract you sign when you are cast in a production will tell you exactly when you'll be working and for how long, how much you'll be paid, what your billing will be (that's how and when your name appears in the credits), and any other details of the shoot.
What should I do when I'm asked to sign a contract?
ALWAYS read the entire contract. You don't want to end up in a sticky situation because you didn't understand what you were signing!
Get a professional to review the contract. An entertainment lawyer is best, but if you have a manager or even a regular lawyer, they should take a look at it to make sure there's nothing unfair or wrong.
If something doesn't seem right about the contract, or doesn't make sense, mention it to the person you're signing the contract for. They should be able to clearify it for you. If they can't - or won't - seek professional legal advice, and think twice about signing the contract.
Don't sign anything unless you've done all of the above and are happy with the agreement. Remember, a contract is a legally binding document, so once you sign it, it'll be difficult to get out of anything you've agreed to.
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