I am NOT an Attorney (re: 9 Tell-Tales Signs ...)

It would appear that my recent post, "9 Tell-Tale Signs That You're Being Scammed," has pushed many buttons, and has resulted in many of you writing me and asking me about the law that says upfront payment to a talent agent or manager is illegal.

Let me be VERY clear about something: As I mentioned in my post on this topic ...

"I AM A FORMER AGENT; NOT AN ATTORNEY..."

If you reread my post, you will also note that

" ... THE INFORMATION I AM GIVING YOU IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY ... ANY DECISIONS MADE IN THESE AREAS SHOULD BE DISCUSSED WITH THE APPROPRIATE BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL."


As a result of your emails, I have done some research and will this article that I found on the internet. If you have questions regarding this hot topic, then it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to consult with the appropriate professional to get your questions answered.

Here is the article, along with its source:

“The difference between a legitimate talent agency and one that might not be legitimate is that a legitimate talent agency does not charge a fee payable for registering you, for resumes, for public relations services, for screen tests, for photographs, for acting lessons, or for many other possibly suspect services. As a general rule, if you are signed as a client by a legitimate talent agency, you will pay such agency nothing until you work and then 10 percent of your earnings as a performer – but NOTHING IN ADVANCE, as this is against the law in most states. Most legitimate talent agencies do not advertise for clients in newspaper classified columns nor do they solicit through the mail.”

Note: This information was derived from material originally distributed by the Los Angeles Office of the Consumer Protection Division of the Federal Trade Commission, the Georgia Film & Videotape Office, The Complete Film Dictionary, and Erik Joseph’s The Glam Scam.


Let me reiterate once more: I AM NOT AN ATTORNEY and it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to do your own due diligence on all matters involving your life, your business and your career.

Sharon


Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
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