There are many things that made me cringe in a recent article in New York Magazine, “Can Fashion Ever be an Ethical Business”. I want to hone in on just one part, specifically this quote from an anonymous Fashion Producer: “From the moment you get a contract you are being stolen from. The contract says, ‘Get a lawyer.’ No one gets a lawyer. I have seen most models sign a contract in under four minutes.”

Whether you’re in fashion, music, the arts, or any other business or industry, as long as money is involved, you need to know and understand your rights and obligations. There is always a chance that someone is trying to take advantage of you, and it may be someone you know well. You may think “I know this person from church/work/school/the neighborhood. I see them all the time, so they would never do anything wrong to me”. But people do things for money that they wouldn’t ordinarily do, and have a habit of disappearing when things go wrong. While trust is a great thing to have in your everyday life, it is a very bad basis for a contract.

If someone is pressuring you to sign on the dotted line at that exact moment, take a step back. Ask yourself “What’s the rush?” Don’t sign your rights away in under four minutes, take your time! Get the contract reviewed by someone who can explain to you exactly what it involves, then make an informed decision.

Whether it’s me, or someone else, do what the anonymous producer recommends—get a lawyer. If you are worried about the cost, I offer flat-fee contract review services starting at $175 for a simple document. I’ll explain your rights and obligations under the contract, and answer any questions you might have. Contact Me to get started!