Joy R. Butler

I agreed to read this book intending to give it what I term a “drive-by.” Stranded in a Midwest airport, I started perusing it in an attempt to figure out what I would say. Before the thundershowers in the East receded, I found myself at the book’s end.

Joy R. Butler, an entertainment attorney, has written a thorough and insightful guide for all writers, producers, filmmakers, website owners and software developers who want to avoid legal entrapments. It provides detailed instructions show more for clearing rights to use quotes, music, film clips, names, faces, brands and life stories.

Having been trained as a journalist, I generally take the position that anything I write is newsworthy and protected under the First Amendment. Attorney Butler disagrees. I was four pages into the first chapter before the author described that position as being akin to “driving a car with your eyes closed.” I may be lucky for a while, she writes, but eventually I am sure encounter trouble.

Butler writes that clearance issues are fact specific. What applies in one situation may not be applicable in another. The book provides real-life examples and the ensuing court battles to illustrate her points.

In the appendix, she even provides more than 50 pages of sample forms and letters which can be adapted to your personal needs

The book opened my eyes. But being an old dog, I am sure I will be slow to learn any permission-seeking new tricks. Yet, I am still glad I read it. To show my gratitude, I offer the author this warning: my daughter lives near your Virginia office. I visit her several times a year. I make no warranties that my driving is any better than my permission-seeking.

Posted by the Pointed Pundit
July 14, 2007
9:27:24 PM show less