How is LPG different than an attorney, manager or agent?

Agents, managers and attorneys have many clients and are necessary to help you get meetings and to sell your work. However, once the sale is complete, they generally are out of the picture, attempting to close a deal for the next client. Often, this is when screenwriters need guidance on business issues. These issues require careful consideration and attention. One wrong move could cost you your relationship with a producer or a studio. LPG consults clients on strategies to avoid certain situations as well as strategies that affirmatively move writers’ careers forward.

What is WGA Arbitration?

When a film is finished shooting the studio sends proposed writing credits to the WGA. Any writer that worked on the script, whether they did a complete re-write, a polish, or a weekend re-write, and who disagrees with the proposed credits is entitled to WGA determination of credits. The WGA arbiters read all the drafts and supporting materials from the writers and determine the screen credits.

I know my script like the back of my hand, why should LPG prepare my arbitration statement?

Writers facing arbitration are under a tremendous amount of pressure to defend their creative rights. Often emotion clouds the clarity of an arbitration statement. Alternatively, some writers do not know where to start, or what to write. LPG prepares writers’ arbitration statements in a way that concisely and persuasively defends the their creative credits. LPG has been successful using this formula in arbitration.

What if I am not a member of the WGA do your services apply to me?

Yes. Once your script is sold to a signatory to the WGA, the WGA rules and regulations on writing credits apply. Writers need to be educated on the WGA rules and regulations and be prepared for issues that may arise, even if they are not currently WGA members.

A producer loves my script and wants to produce and/or co-write it should I be concerned?

It’s exciting when a producer wants to become involved with your work. It can also be intimidating, especially when he/she wants to co-write or polish the screenplay that you have been trying to get made for years. The WGA has specific rules regarding writer/producer credits. LPG consults writers on issues involving producers that may impact a writer’s creative credits.

I haven’t sold a screenplay yet, is it necessary to meet with you?

Yes. LPG consults writers on preventative steps that are needed to protect their work before it is sold to a production company or a studio.

I just sold my screenplay is it necessary to meet with you?

Yes. The sale of your screenplay is an exciting time. Your next hurdle is to get your film made with your name on the credits. Writers often face issues with studios relating to creative and business decisions. Through the development and production stages it is necessary to safeguard your creative writing credits. LPG helps writers identify these issues and navigate the process.