AboutDan Pepper Expertise How to start an adult film business or adult website LEGALLY.
What laws to be concerned about with getting into the adult entertainment industry.
What terms and conditions do you need on your adult website.
How to comply with 18 USC 2257 - the federal record keeping requirements.
What forms and agreements do you need for models and crew.
How to deal with copyright and trademark laws.
Experience I have been practicing law since 1994, and have represented numerous businesses and entertainers in the adult entertainment industry as the managing member of Pepper Law Group, LLC, at adultwebsitelawyer.com.
Question I'm trying to launch an online adult video website but am concerned about basing our operations in the area where I reside (northern VA outside DC). Can you recommend any lawfirms and/or consultants who can help me navigate the legal issues involved -- including where to legally shoot our content for the website. My research so far indicates that we could only legally film in Las Vegas or LA. Is that true -- or do you know of any active communities of performers and producers in the mid-Atlantic region?
Answer Mark,
My law firm assists adult filmmakers across the country, so I'd be happy to chat with you. Off hand, I am not familiar with any DC/VA attorneys who are familiar with this business.
You are partially correct in that the only U.S. jurisdiction in which it is affirmatively legal to produce adult content is in California, but of course, production does take place in every state of the country. By producing content outside of California, you run the risk of violating the local jurisdiction's obscenity laws, as well as solicitation of prostitution, pandering, and similar laws. These risks increase depending upon the nature of the content you're producing, and the manner in which you hire your talent.
Hiring a qualified lawyer familiar with these areas of the law can significantly reduce these risks.
