Program Description:

From a producer hiring assistants for a new film to a freelance graphic designer taking on a new project, employment issues are an inescapable part of nearly all artistic disciplines. Join CLA and attorneys Shanen Prout and Lee Cotugno for a presentation covering some employment law basics for both employers and employees in arts and entertainment fields. Some of the topics to be covered include the differences between an employee and an independent contractor, wage and hours laws, contract clauses affecting future employment, and wrongful termination claims.

Presenters:

Shanen Prout, Esq. - Shanen Prout practices law in Los Angeles where he focuses on business and intellectual property litigation and transactions. His clients include businesses and individuals in the arts, independent film, digital media, apparel, and consumer goods. Mr. Prout is a member of the State Bar of California’s Business Law and Intellectual Property Law Sections, and a member of the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Litigation Section. He is also a panel attorney with California Lawyers for the Arts.

Lee W. Cotugno, Esq. - Lee W. Cotugno obtained his law degree from the University of California at Berkeley (Boalt Hall) in 1977. He has tried numerous jury and court trials involving employment and business disputes and has been lead class counsel on major employment classification cases. His practice now focuses on complex business and employment litigation, representing both employers and employees, and providing advice on developing and implementing employment policies.

These programs are made possible, in part, by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Arts Commission and The City of Los Angeles, Department of Cultural Affairs.  Additional support provided by the California Arts Council.