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Expert: - 3/31/2009


Question
Hi.  I'm interested in starting an adult film website in California.  What are the
laws concerning registering the website and setting up contracts with the
actors?

Answer
Ben,

There are a number of laws involved.  You need to obtain a permit to film adult content in California, and you are strongly advised to set up a business entity for your operation.

Effective model releases (and location releases, if you'll be filming outside of your own premises) are necessary, as well as compliance with the 2257 regulations.  You would also be wise to register copyrights for your content.

Depending upon the nature of your content, you need to concern yourself with obscenity laws, as well.

As I tell anyone looking to get into this business, you are crazy to do without getting qualified legal help.  There are far too many risks and pitfalls.

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Dan Pepper

Expertise

Lawyer representing adult industry businesses and entertainers, and can answer questions related to:

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.

Before asking your question, I recommend visiting adultwebsitelawyer.com and requesting a copy of the Top 6 Considerations of Starting an Adult Entertainment Business. You may find your question answered there.

I ALSO DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM MALES INTERESTED IN STARRING IN ADULT FILMS.

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. My firm also operates 2257Sentry, one of the industry's leading 18 USC 2257 custodian record keeping services for producers of adult content.

Organizations
Free Speech Coalition, Frequent speaker at adult industry events including the Internext Expo and Exxxotica New York; interviewed in AVN Online; regular contributor to XBiz World

Publications
XBiz World AVN Online

Education/Credentials
BA in Political Science, JD (law degree)

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