Entertainment Law at Cavitch Familo & Durkin
Cavitch Familo & Durkin’s Entertainment Law practice is your behind-the-scenes powerhouse, guiding filmmakers and producers through the complexities of motion picture production in Ohio. With a proven track record our team delivers the strategic counsel and local connections essential for bringing stories to life on screen.
Your Production Partner in Ohio
Led by attorneys Mike Rasor, Cory Martinson and Milica Prica, our practice provides full-spectrum legal support to businesses entering film production, independent filmmakers, and influencers. From securing financing to navigating regulatory hurdles, we ensure your project stays on schedule and within budget.
Leveraging the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit
Cavitch doesn’t just advise, we help producers maximize financial incentives. Our team recently negotiated a secured loan backed by the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit, turning incentives into tangible production funding. We know how to structure deals that make the most of Ohio’s film-friendly landscape, amplifying your budget without sacrificing creative control.
Big-Firm Expertise, Midwest Value
We offer sophisticated legal solutions with a local touch. We provide expertise and access to contacts, vendors, and resources — all at a fraction of the cost of coastal firms. Whether you’re negotiating talent agreements, resolving union matters, or protecting intellectual property, we deliver high-impact representation without the Hollywood price tag.
Let’s Make Movie Magic
Bring your next project to life with Cavitch by your side. Connect with our Entertainment Law team today — let’s transform funding roadblocks into creative opportunities and keep your production moving seamlessly from script to screen.
What Types Of Projects Qualify For The 30% Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit?
Eligible projects include feature films, documentaries, television series or miniseries, pilots, music videos, commercials, interactive video games, and even Broadway/theatrical productions. If you have an upcoming production in mind, we recommend consulting with an entertainment attorney early in the planning phase to evaluate your project’s eligibility.
What Is The Minimum Budget To Access Ohio’s Film Incentives?
To qualify for the tax credit, a production must hit a minimum qualified in-state spend of $300,000. Partnering with a local entertainment attorney helps you navigate the state’s guidelines regarding qualifying vs. non-qualifying project expenses.
What Are The Financing Requirements I Must Legally Prove When Applying For Ohio Credit?
Your application packet must include verifiable documentation proving that your production company has already secured at least 50% of the total production budget through confirmed equity, loans, or pre-sales. Our legal team assists Cavitch clients in drafting and structuring compliant financing agreements to meet this threshold.
What Are The Key Legal Protections I Need To Sell Music?
The most critical legal protections often involve clearly defining the scope of the sale, securing indemnification against future infringement claims, and auditing historical royalty streams to ensure accurate valuation. Your legal counsel will handle the complex due diligence and chain-of-title reviews necessary to close the transaction safely.
Are Production Companies In Cleveland Required To Hire Union Cast And Crew (SAG-AFTRA or LATSE)?
Private sector entertainment productions are governed by federal labor laws. If your project hires a single actor who belongs to SAG-AFTRA, or if your financing requires union-backed distribution, your entire production may need to sign a union signatory agreement. A local entertainment attorney can help you navigate union vs. non-union hiring strategies to keep your project on budget.
Does Sampling A Small Portion Of A Local Artist’s Song For My Project Qualify As ‘Fair Use’?
Use of any length of copyrighted sound recording or musical composition without permission can expose you to a lawsuit. At Cavitch, our entertainment attorneys assist our clients in navigating the complex licensing landscape to ensure all musical assets are cleared and legally protected.
If My Team Is Filming In Northeast Ohio Do I Need Municipal Permits For Every Individual City?
There is no single, centralized permit that covers the entire Northeast Ohio region. If you are shooting on public property, blocking sidewalks, or using drones, you must secure individual municipal permits. Our legal team coordinates with local municipalities to ensure our client’s production is fully permitted and compliant with local municipal ordinances.
Speak With One Of Our Ohio Entertainment Lawyers
We have the experience and skill to protect your creative investment. To discuss your legal needs, schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers. You may call our Cleveland office at 216-865-1718 or submit a request through our contact form.