While some entertainment lawyers are "sharp shooter mercenaries," Matthew Dresden is a collaborator and teammate. We sat with Dresden to ask some high-level questions on behalf of independent filmmakers — especially those who’ve never worked with an entertainment lawyer.

When filming on private property, a location agreement is a must.  Not only does this agreement protect the production company against claims such as trespass, but will be required when securing distribution and E&O insurance.  Every filmmaker should have a good form agreement that is readily available on set (and can be used on different shoots).