We help storytellers tell their stories
The Kelley Firm, PLLC
Areas of practice
Entertainment/brand content
The Kelley Firm works with writers, directors and producers to ensure that the “business side of things” is on solid ground as you build your team and tell your stories. For scripted series, documentary and scripted films, our attorneys work on behalf of our clients to negotiate option agreements, shopping agreements (and explain the difference between the two), negotiate and finalize cast and crew agreements, negotiate with the major talent guilds, and provide legal support for all phases of development, production and distribution. On the production finance side, we negotiate on behalf of our production company clients to secure studio slate financing deals, equity financing, and help structure simple or complex debt financing. We also work with advertising and media agencies to collaborate with their brand clients and develop, produce and distribute original content that cements the client's commitment to the values and purpose of their brands. We advise producers on the best corporate entity to select for a production company and work with producers to secure investors, add partners, and negotiate investment term in single-picture and slate financed deals.
Our production clients currently have content being distributed theatrically and on the major streaming platforms and broadcast channels in the US and around the globe.
Corporate/Transactional
Deciding whether to incorporate your business and what form that entity should take are critical elements to the success of your venture. We can help your business from inception through each phase of expansion including bringing in new partners and investors, renting or purchasing office space and hiring employees. As you begin new client relationships and develop existing collaborations, we will negotiate and draft clear, enforceable agreements that reflect precisely what you plan to achieve in each transaction, and that protect your interests in the contractual relationship.
Litigation
With over fifteen years litigation experience in state and federal courts, as well as in complex mediation and arbitration, The Kelley Firm represents individuals and corporations in a range of civil disputes in New York forums.