How to Handle Theft, Damage to Reputation etc.

In life, if you live long enough, as an artist, spokesperson, scientist (aka the TALENT) -you'll ultimately run risks. This week, it has been all over the press and fans/friends have written to me asking if I'm okay, so I am writing my comments here.

Here is the story (full download of case filing)

Jedi

What will happen is there is a definite offense here in the creation of the products to leverage off of the "Jedi-Mind-Trick". My advice to all artists, scientists, spokespersons is to keep a running public record. This means when you are recruited try to make sure it is announced, published on public record so the dates cannot be disputed.

Example:

Secondly, make sure you or your agent (ie. WMA) verbally and in writing notifies the company that withholding, or having withheld any information of misconduct, felonies, infringements, pending or past lawsuits is a breach of your contractual agreement on reputation concerns. Although it may have been in the contract, sending a written statement confirms and can be used as additional evidence.

Third, if you own a blog or public forum, you should always publicly announce comments relating to media news. Furthermore, the company needs to receive an written notice to rectify the situation within such and such time frame or else ... The forum should allow for public comments and viral circulation. This will document that you were in disagreement with the said action(s).

Sample statement:

Each Party acknowledges and agrees that due to the unique nature and reputation of the TALENT, there can be no adequate remedy at law for any breach of its obligations hereunder, which breach may result in irreparable harm to the TALENT. Therefore, that upon any such breach or any threat thereof, the Discloser shall be entitled to appropriate equitable relief, including injunction, without the requirement of posting a bond, in addition to whatever remedies it might have at law.

The contract should define who the TALENT, their reach, reputation, field of works etc.

Guarantees:

There are no guarantees but you can strengthen your position with facts, time, dates and publicly filed materials especially media announcements. Make sure you have all your documents in place and if it is a felony, you should ensure the evidence is copied and secured in more than one location. Remember, hard evidence is the best defense. Lack of knowledge, "I didn't know" is the worse statement to use. It is best to be as proactive as possible.

Legal firms are busy with numerous cases. The better you can provide definitive materials the better your chances. Even then, don't go with unknown lawyers. You need someone who has a reputation. Clearly, Mr. Lucas is using one of Hollywood's best.

I thank everyone for their support. Will keep you posted on the events.