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.
I shoot solo girl content only, photos and video clips. No guys or girl/girl. My question is, sometimes the theme of the shoot or the location makes using a hotel suite the most logical choice of venue for the shoot. My question is, here in CA, is it legal to shoot in one, ie, is there anything other than maybe each hotel's preference for us not to do it, that would be illegal? Its always just me, my husband (we work together) and the girl, super hush hush, but if anyone at the hotel were to suspect anything and check it out, what could become of the situation?
Thanks!
Dee
ANSWER: You do run certain risks by not getting the express permission of the property owner when doing these shoots. I always obtaining a location release from any property owner, which can shield you from future claims of invasion of privacy, infringement of right of publicity, and similar claims. All it takes is a viewer to recognize the premises and alert the property owner.
Also, you can exacerbate your risk if crew or talent get injured on the premises.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Noted. More specifically, is there anything legal they could do -- like press charges -- or just kick us out? It would be a national hotel chain so doubtful anyone would know which one as they all look the same decor wise. I also doubt the property owner would give outright consent at a hotel, so we could take the risk in that respect. But the bigget thing is -- could they call the cops and would the cops be able to do anything other than ask us to leave? All documentation would be in order.
Also, is it legal in all of CA or just LA county? I don't see any definition anywhere on the net.
THANKS!
DEE
Answer Dee - my sense is that the risk would be relatively low of consequences beyond getting kicked out, but without knowing exactly what your activities are, it is impossible to give you a definitive answer.
Adult film production is legal in all of California due to a precedent set by a 1988 decision of the California Supreme Court (California vs. Freeman).
