Workshop Registration

Entertainment Law for Filmmakers

This panel explores the essential legal knowledge every filmmaker needs to navigate the industry with confidence. From contracts and copyright to financing, distribution, and rights clearance, industry experts break down the key legal frameworks that shape a project from development to release. Designed for emerging and established creators alike, the session offers practical insights, real-world examples, and guidance on how to protect your work, collaborate effectively, and avoid common legal pitfalls in today’s screen industry.

Our workshops that cover Entertainment Law and Producing related topics this season: Film Law, Producing Dramatic Films and The Business of Film Distribution.

Moderator:
Sam Posner practices corporate and commercial, assisting start-ups, small businesses and large corporations with corporate structuring, governance and commercial transactions. Prior to starting Platform Law, Sam spent more than eight years working in-house with a multi-national media company, acquiring first-hand understanding of the issues and needs faced in day-to-day business operations.  He focuses on media and technology clients.
https://platform.law/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-posner-92598a15

Panelists:
1. Jessica Commanda is a lawyer working across law and the creative industries, where she combines her passion for storytelling and legal expertise. With a strong background in film and media, she brings a practical knowledge of intellectual property, contract negotiation, and rights management. Having served in a range of production roles, she has firsthand industry experience that gives her a deep understanding of what creative clients need, allowing her to provide artists, creators, and production companies with strategic legal guidance tailored to the unique demands of the entertainment industry. Her approach is detail-oriented, proactive, and focused on delivering practical solutions. Jessica has obtained a Certificate in Entertainment Law from Osgoode PD and was chosen to be part of the inaugural cohorts of The Hollywood Reporter's Women in Entertainment Canada mentorship program and Artists' Legal Advice Services entertainment law mentorship program. Jessica is a proud member of Nipissing First Nation and is dedicated to supporting Indigenous creatives as they navigate the law, helping them protect their work while advancing their careers. She also actively supports The Shine Network Institute’s initiatives, which champions Indigenous women in the screen industry.
https://www.commandalaw.com/  | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-commanda/

2. With more than 30 years experience in the entertainment industry, Christopher Case is a Commercial Insurance Broker with a different perspective for Artists, Managers and Content Creators in the music, film, game, media, event and app development sector. Chris and the RGI team offer Risk Management and Insurance Solutions for Businesses with an International focus and access to a wide network of Insurance Company Partners and related services to help you achieve your Vision.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopheracase/

3. Elizabeth Klinck is an archive producer and music clearance specialist on hundreds of international documentaries and fiction films that have garnered Emmy, BAFTA, CSA, Peabody, and Oscar awards. She also leads workshops and produces industry sessions at international markets and film festivals.
Filmography: http://imdb.to/1isd76y

 

Tue 2 June 2026, 7 - 8:30 pm   
(Registration deadline is Tue 2 June 6:00 pm)

Instructor: TBA
Location: 1137 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario M6H 2A3
Category: Industry Panels
Maximum Capacity: 50
1.5 hours of instruction $0 or PWYC donation
Registration opens
Tue 19 May at 10am