Release of Liability
Secure your production with California-compliant liability releases. Protect against talent disputes, equipment claims, and Cal-OSHA risks for film sets.
Fill the form
Customized fields for your role
Preview live
See your document update in real time
Download PDF
Free watermarked or $9 clean copy
In the high-stakes world of California video production, a generic waiver isn't enough. Between AB5 worker classification audits, strict Cal-OSHA safety requirements, and the necessity of Civil Code... Read more
Customize your Release of Liability
12 fields · Takes about 2 minutes
Accept terms in the form to enable downloads
Customize your Release of Liability
12 fields · Takes about 2 minutes
Legal Document
This Release of Liability (this "Release") is made and entered into as of [date] (the "Effective Date"), by and between [releasor_name] (the "Releasor") and [releasee_name] (the "Releasee"). In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
WHEREAS, certain events, incidents, disputes, or claims have arisen between the Releasor and the Releasee as more fully described herein; and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to fully, finally, and forever resolve any and all claims, disputes, and causes of action arising from or related to the matters described herein; and
WHEREAS, the Parties enter into this Release voluntarily and with full knowledge of its terms and consequences.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises, covenants, and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Release arises from and relates to the following facts and circumstances: [incident_description] (the "Incident"). The Releasor acknowledges that the foregoing description accurately and completely sets forth the relevant facts and circumstances giving rise to this Release, and that the Releasor has had a full and adequate opportunity to review, investigate, and evaluate the facts and circumstances described herein prior to the execution of this Release. The Parties enter into this Release with full knowledge of the nature, extent, and consequences of the Incident, and each Party represents that it has not relied upon any statement, representation, or promise of the other Party, except as expressly set forth in this Release.
The Releasor, on behalf of the Releasor and the Releasor's heirs, executors, administrators, personal representatives, successors, and assigns, hereby FOREVER RELEASES, ACQUITS, AND DISCHARGES the Releasee, together with the Releasee's heirs, executors, administrators, personal representatives, officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, insurers, attorneys, affiliates, subsidiaries, parent companies, successors, and assigns (collectively, the "Released Parties"), from any and all claims, demands, actions, causes of action, suits, debts, dues, accounts, bonds, covenants, contracts, agreements, judgments, liabilities, obligations, damages, losses, costs, and expenses of every kind and nature whatsoever, whether known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected, disclosed or undisclosed, matured or unmatured, accrued or unaccrued, fixed or contingent, at law or in equity, that the Releasor now has, has ever had, or may hereafter have against any of the Released Parties, arising out of, connected with, or in any way related to the Incident described in Section 1, including but not limited to claims for personal injury, bodily injury, emotional distress, pain and suffering, property damage, economic loss, consequential damages, punitive damages, attorneys' fees, and costs (collectively, the "Released Claims"). This Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by applicable law.
The Parties acknowledge that the consideration for this Release is adequate and sufficient to support the promises and covenants contained herein.
The Releasor hereby covenants and agrees that the Releasor shall not, at any time hereafter, commence, maintain, prosecute, or cause to be commenced, maintained, or prosecuted, any action, suit, proceeding, complaint, charge, or claim of any kind, in any court, tribunal, administrative agency, or other forum, against any of the Released Parties, based upon, arising out of, or in any way related to any of the Released Claims. The Releasor acknowledges and agrees that in the event the Releasor breaches this covenant not to sue, the Released Parties shall be entitled to recover from the Releasor all costs, expenses, and attorneys' fees incurred in defending against any such action, suit, or proceeding, in addition to any other remedies available at law or in equity. This covenant not to sue is a material inducement for the Releasee to enter into this Release.
Each Party executing this Release hereby represents and warrants that: (a) such Party has carefully read this Release in its entirety and fully understands its terms, conditions, and consequences; (b) such Party is executing this Release freely, voluntarily, and without coercion, duress, or undue influence of any kind; (c) such Party has had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel of such Party's own choosing before executing this Release, and has either done so or has voluntarily elected not to do so; (d) such Party has not assigned, transferred, conveyed, or otherwise disposed of any of the claims, demands, or causes of action released herein, and no other person or entity has any interest in the Released Claims; (e) such Party is at least eighteen (18) years of age and is legally competent to enter into this Release; (f) such Party has full right, power, and authority to execute this Release and to perform all obligations hereunder; and (g) no oral representations, statements, promises, or inducements apart from the terms expressly set forth in this Release have been made to such Party.
6.1 Governing Law. This Release shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the state in which this Release is executed, without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Each Party irrevocably consents to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of the state and federal courts located in the state in which this Release is executed. 6.2 Entire Agreement. This Release constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements, understandings, negotiations, and discussions, whether oral or written. 6.3 Severability. If any provision of this Release is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision, and the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. 6.4 Amendment. This Release may not be amended, modified, or supplemented except by a written instrument signed by all Parties. 6.5 Counterparts. This Release may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. 6.6 Binding Effect. This Release shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, and assigns. 6.7 Construction. The language of this Release shall be construed as a whole according to its fair meaning, and not strictly for or against either Party. The headings in this Release are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the interpretation of any provision.
[safety standards compliance]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Release of Liability as of the date first written above, each acknowledging that they have read and understood the terms herein and agree to be bound thereby.
Releasor
Name: Releasor
Date: ___________________
Releasee
Name: Releasee
Date: ___________________
In the high-stakes world of California video production, a generic waiver isn't enough. Between AB5 worker classification audits, strict Cal-OSHA safety requirements, and the necessity of Civil Code compliance, your production company needs a release that mitigates location permit issues and potential talent litigation. This professional release form ensures that B-roll subjects, talent, and crew acknowledge the inherent risks as 'Assumption of Risk' and waive future claims under California Civil Code § 1550, safeguarding your post-production deliverables and licensing rights.
Beyond the standard release of liability sections, this template adds fields specific to Video Production Company:
The core legal purpose of a Release of Liability is to protect one party (the Releasee) from legal claims or lawsuits from another party (the Releasor) related to the subject of the release, such as an activity, transaction, or event.
Equipment Damage and Liability
Include clauses in contracts that detail responsibility for equipment damage and insurance coverage.
Copyright Infringement
Use contracts that include warranties of originality and appropriate licensing agreements for footage and music.
Breach of Talent Agreement
Implement clear contractual terms detailing talent obligations, rights, and compensation.
Location Permits and Clearances
Ensure contracts with location owners include permits and clear usage rights.
For this release of liability to be legally valid:
Common mistakes to avoid:
Copyright Act of 1976
Governs the rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, publicly display, and create derivative works of productions. Crucial for video production companies in terms of using, reproducing, or distributing content.
Enforced by U.S. Copyright Office
ASCAP/BMI licensing
Govern music licensing for public performance. Video production companies must ensure that any music used in productions is fully licensed.
Enforced by ASCAP, BMI (performance rights organizations)
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Truth in Advertising Standards
Regulates advertising practices to prevent consumer deception. Video content used for advertising must adhere to these standards.
Enforced by Federal Trade Commission
Recommended coverage: General Liability Insurance · Professional Liability Insurance · Equipment Insurance · Workers' Compensation Insurance
AB5 (Cal. Lab. Code §§ 2750.3) strictly defines worker classification via the ABC test. A Release of Liability cannot be used to circumvent employment status; if your 'contractor' is legally an employee, you are still liable for workers' compensation and Cal-OSHA compliance regardless of a signed waiver. This document should be used in conjunction with a formal Talent or Crew Agreement to clarify the scope of work.
No. In California, while a Release of Liability can protect your production company against ordinary negligence, public policy (Cal. Civ. Code) prohibits the enforcement of waivers for gross negligence, intentional physical injury, or violations of safety regulations like Cal-OSHA standards.
While primarily focused on liability, this form includes necessary 'Acknowledgment of Understanding' clauses that support the Copyright Act of 1976. However, for full protection over B-roll, storyboards, and color grading deliverables, you should ensure this release refers to a master licensing agreement that handles ASCAP/BMI music clearances and FTC truth-in-advertising standards.
Release of Liability
Create a California-compliant Release of Liability for music producers. Cover royalty disputes, sample clearance, and AB5 worker classification specifically for CA.
Release of Liability
Protect your LMS and content from refund disputes, plagiarism claims, and California-specific liabilities with a professional Release of Liability form.
Release of Liability
Secure your ink studio with a California-compliant Release of Liability. Protect against bloodborne pathogen, allergy, and AB5 risks specific to CA law.
Release of Liability
Create a California-compliant Release of Liability for handyman services. Protect against property or bodily injury claims under CA Civil and Labor Code.
Bill of Sale
Create a Georgia-compliant Bill of Sale for video production equipment and assets. Protect your studio with O.C.G.A. § 13-5-30 compliance and copyright clarity.
Power of Attorney
Secure your PA video production operations. Grant authority for location permits, ASCAP/BMI licensing, and talent agreements with a Pennsylvania-compliant POA.
Power of Attorney
Secure your production with an Arizona-compliant Power of Attorney. Delegate authority for B-roll, talent agreements, and film permits under ARS § 14-5501.
Employment Contract
Create a MA-compliant employment contract for video production. Secure IP rights, enforce non-compete reforms, and ensure Chapter 148 wage theft compliance.