Welcome to my practice.
My name is Silvia Schmidt and I have been practicing entertainment law for 10 years.
I’m a film and tv lawyer, specialising in media, finance, and entertainment law. My mission is to simplify the legal side of entertainment, offering practical legal advice to help you overcome the challenges of the industry. From drafting and reviewing agreements to helping you negotiate deals, I'm here to support your project from concept to completion.
Navigating contracts in film and TV projects can be complex. You need clear, straightforward advice to protect your interests and keep your project moving forward.
I know that finding the right lawyer is a choice not to be taken lightly. That’s why I offer free consultations to walk you through your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.
What I Do
Contract Expertise
Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts tailored to your needs.
Cost-Transparent Solutions
High-quality advice without the hidden fees.
Industry Insight
Leveraging my experience in media finance, production legals, and as a documentary filmmaker to offer advice that understands your challenges.
“Silvia was very helpful in creating an option agreement for a feature film I am producing. She was happy to advise where needed and got the contract drawn up quickly and effectively. I certainly plan to use her for any future media legal work. ”
“‘I loved working with Silvia. She brings a wealth of knowledge to any project, and is able to adapt to the needs of the client. She gave peace of mind to a daunting process, creating all the music contracts for Mermaids. I would absolutely recommend her services to any filmmaker and creative! You’ll be in safe hands.’ ”
Who I Help
Creatives, Authors and Artists.
Protecting your rights and ensuring fair compensation.
Investors and Financiers.
Safeguarding your investments with clear, understandable agreements. Clients include Ingenious Media, Great Point Media and others.
Producers and Production Companies
Managing all legal aspects so you can focus on bringing your vision to life. I help documentary, audio book and feature film clients. Some are individual producers and others are setting up or have set up their own production companies.
Talent Agencies
Ensuring you can contract your talent in a way that works for you, your talent and your clients. I have provided contracts for agents within and outside the entertainment industry.
Entrepreneurs
Whether outside or inside of the entertainment world, I also assist entrepreneurs and business owners getting to grips with the contracts they need to run their business. Clients include digital nomads, solo entrepreneurs and small businesses.
How to Work with Me
Development
From securing options over literary works to setting up first look and overhead deals. Your dedicated development attorney.
Financing
Structuring international co-productions, equity investments, and securing funding. Expertise in financing films and working with securities industry attorneys.
Production
Handling all production agreements, including for cast, crew, and post-production services. Assistance with security clearance lawyers for secure production environments.
Distribution
Managing sales agency arrangements, distribution deals, and rights for emerging media. Guidance through the film distribution process.
General commercial and business law
I can also help with general commercial contracting needs whether within our outside of the entertainment sector. Please get in touch to find out more.
“Silvia Schmidt was wonderfully effective in negotiating the terms of my contract. I am a writer. It was great to be able to contact her when I needed and she understood completely my requirements.”
Your Creative Vision, Protected
“I have used Silvia Schmidt services during my first short and later for another project. Silvia was always attentive to my needs and the people I worked with. Her insights and knowledge were invaluable to me and my company. I would definitely recommend her services to anyone looking for a professional and reliable solicitor. ”
I understand the pressures and challenges you face in the entertainment industry. Like you, I've navigated the complexities of bringing a project from idea to screen. No one should have to manage the legal hurdles alone or feel overwhelmed by the process. That’s why I'm here to offer support, guidance, and straightforward advice to make your legal journey as smooth as possible.
Get in Touch
“Working with Silvia was straightforward, helpful, and simple. Much appreciated. ”
Ready to discuss your project? Contact me for a free call to see how I can help. Specialising in English law, I provide targeted advice for the entertainment industry, ensuring you're well-prepared for any legal challenges ahead. Please note, I specialise in English law and cannot advise on US law matters.
“I can wholeheartedly recommend Silvia. I hired her because I was in the process of updating my contract template, and I wanted to have it reviewed by a lawyer. Silvia did an amazing job; I could immediately tell that she had taken the time to delve into every detail and suggest improvements. After working with Silvia, I feel confident knowing that my contract covers everything that I need to protect both my clients and my business ”