Clearing the Legal Path for Filmmakers with Attorney Dale Nelson
In this episode, Tisha talks with Dale Nelson, a partner at the LA-based law firm Donaldson Callif Perez, who specializes in film and television clearances. Dale delves into the essentials of legally clearing a film to avoid issues such as defamation, right of privacy, and copyright infringement.
Their discussion covers Dale’s extensive experience at Warner Brothers, where she handled major properties like Harry Potter and DC Comics, and offers practical advice for filmmakers on common clearance issues and the importance of fair use. Tisha and Dale also explore current trends and legal challenges in the industry, including those posed by AI technology.
Dale Nelson is a partner at the LA-based firm Donaldson, Callif, Perez where she works with independent filmmakers, documentarians, podcasters, and artists to help them tell their stories – their way. Dale spent over 25 years as in-house counsel at Warner Brothers and is a frequent speaker, lecturer, and panelist on a wide range of media and intellectual property topics around the world.
For more information on Dale’s services, visit www.DonaldsonCallifPerez.com.
For information about the book referenced, titled Clearance & Copyright, visit anywhere you buy books.
00:00 Introduction to Film Clearances
00:32 Meet Dale Nelson: Legal Expert in Film Clearances
01:26 Understanding Film Clearance and Legal Issues
03:56 Fair Use and Trademarks in Filmmaking
08:26 The Clearance Process for Documentaries
10:50 Dale Nelson's Career Journey
15:05 Life Rights and True Crime Documentaries
19:35 Trends in Source Material and International IP
22:56 AI and Copyright Infringement
27:55 Conclusion and Contact Information