Development and Production Attorney (Potential Director or VP Scope)

NEON is seeking a highly skilled, experienced attorney to join our growing Business & Legal Affairs team in either the New York or Los Angeles office.  This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with NEON’s creative teams and contribute to a company dedicated to thought-provoking independent cinema.  This position reports directly to the General Counsel of the company.

Here is what you’ll do:

• Negotiate and draft all development agreements for the company, including, without limitation, option purchase agreements, producer agreements and writer agreements.
• Negotiate and draft all principal production agreements for the company, including chain of title documentation, acting agreements and directing agreements.  
• Oversee outside production counsel, if applicable, in connection with all additional legal work on each NEON production and organize the company’s internal files for delivery to third party distributors.
• Provide input and advice to NEON’s acquisition team for production related matters that arise in the company’s acquisition agreements and monitor third party production counsel on NEON’s negative pickup titles to ensure NEON’s requirements are being adhered to.
• Time permitting, draft and negotiate various publicity and marketing documents and/or oversee team members doing the same.
• Collaborate with internal counterparts and executives on a range of building internal processes, providing strategic legal expertise and guidance. Manage and develop best practices in contract templates, precedent monitoring, and rights management, ensuring ongoing effectiveness.
• Stay abreast of all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards pertaining to film, copyright, and contract law.

Here is what we are looking for:

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a practicing attorney with a minimum of 3 years focused on transactional entertainment law in the film industry.  Specific development and production experience is preferred.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active membership in good standing with either the New York bar or California bar (or both).
• Demonstrated understanding of film industry practices, copyright law, and intellectual property law.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills with the ability to build strong relationships across departments and external organizations.

Compensation:

This position has a target annual pay range of $150,000 to $200,000. Where a prospective employee will be paid within the compensation range listed above will depend on a number of factors, including but not limited to the candidateʼs depth of experience and qualifications; the level of specialization the role requires; budgetary considerations, and the local market conditions that exist where the employee will be based.

NEON offers all of its full-time employees a robust range of benefits

• Get peace of mind with our comprehensive Health Care Plan, covering medical, dental, and vision expenses.
• Secure your future with our Retirement Savings Plan, offering options like 401k and IRA.
• Stay protected with our Life Insurance Coverage, including both Basic and Voluntary plans, as well as AD&D.
• Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with our Unlimited Vacation policy, sick days, public holidays, and office closure for winter break.
• Take care of your loved ones with our Family Leave Options, including Parental and Caregiver Leaves.
• Invest in your wellbeing through our Wellness Programs and Resources.

About NEON

NEON is a leading independent film distribution company dedicated to championing bold and innovative storytelling. We believe in the power of film to spark conversations, connect communities, and make the world a more empathetic place. 

NEON is committed to fostering and promoting an inclusive environment that allows us to recruit and retain highly talented staff with diverse backgrounds and differing abilities.  The job description is to be used merely as a guide of expectations rather than an exhaustive list of all duties and competencies. All requirements and skills are subject to change as business needs evolve..