Legal Question in Business Law in Arizona

contract of literary work

I am working with two (2) people on writing a book. The idea for the book was mine. I knew exactly what I wanted and why. I needed help in interpreting the language from the arts, to a more general organization format. Person one helped me do an outline and the first 32 pages. I have continued to write and now have approximately 75 pages. I have asked for edits from person one. She is wanting to know what her interest will be (what will she get paid). Person two has only copies of the work and hasn't written anything as of yet. I will meet with her is September to determine what her contributation will be. I know we need some kind of contract. How do I determine their value add based on an unfinished project?


Asked on 7/30/99, 3:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Timothy J. Walton Internet Attorney

Re: contract of literary work

The value of each person's work is completely determined by how badly you need their help and what you are willing to pay.

You could give them a share of the advance (if there is one), a share of the royalties, or a straight cash payment.

Note that you may also want a written contract specifying that the book will not be a joint work and that the copyright is to be owned by you alone. See a qualified attorney in your area about drawing up such a contract.

Read more
Answered on 7/30/99, 6:51 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Business Law questions and answers in Arizona