Get the co-production agreement that matches how the project is being funded, made and exploited

Usually when more than one party is contributing something meaningful to the project, such as funding, production services, creative material, distribution access or brand value. A short deal memo may record the broad idea, but it often leaves unanswered questions about ownership of the final work, approval rights, recoupment, credits and what happens if the project stalls. A fuller co-production agreement is useful where the parties are genuinely sharing risk or upside, because those arrangements tend to become harder to manage once filming, editing, release planning or monetisation begins.

The key points usually include each party's role, what each side is contributing, who owns background material, who owns or licenses the finished production, how approvals work, how costs are split and how revenue is shared. Depending on the project, the agreement may also deal with credits, delivery obligations, sequel or spin-off rights, territory limits, insurance responsibilities and early termination. These details matter because a co-production is not just about making the work. It is also about deciding who can exploit it, who gets paid first and who can make major decisions.

Important details include whether one party originated the concept, whether contributions are cash or in-kind, whether profit share applies, who is handling production management, and who has final say on edits, release timing or licensing deals. It also helps to know whether there are third-party contributors such as talent, agencies, sponsors or distributors whose rights need to fit around the main agreement. If the wider project may involve external permissions or sign-off, regulator requirements can vary, so the agreement should be drafted with those practical dependencies in mind rather than treating them as automatic.

Sometimes for a very simple arrangement, but many co-productions stop being simple once rights, money and control are looked at closely. A generic template may not separate pre-existing IP from newly created material, explain who can approve edits or release strategy, or deal properly with a party leaving before completion. Those gaps can matter even on modest projects if the work later attracts commercial interest. If the project involves shared funding, multiple contributors or future exploitation plans, a drafted or reviewed agreement is usually a better fit than relying on broad template wording.

Timing depends on how settled the commercial points already are and whether you need a fresh draft or a review of an existing document. If the parties have already agreed the main deal terms, the work is usually more straightforward. If ownership, approvals or revenue splits are still being negotiated, extra time may be needed because those issues shape the core wording. We will tell you what information and documents are needed, prepare or review the agreement, then work through up to two rounds of amendments included with the service so the final document better reflects the agreed structure.

Working with us is simple. Start by submitting an enquiry through our website using the form at the top of this page or on our Get Started page. A legal project manager will review your enquiry within 1 business day and reach out to understand your needs.

They'll send you a fixed fee quote outlining costs, scope, and timing. If you're happy, you can accept and sign our engagement letter online. Once that's done, we'll connect you with an expert lawyer who will complete your project via email, phone, or video chat, with the timing confirmed in your quote.

If you're not looking for help with a specific matter, explore our platform, which offers free templates, tools to get your business set up, and even a free tier to get started. Whether you need legal support or just want to browse resources, we've got you covered.

At Sprintlaw, our pricing is transparent and designed for startups and small businesses. Many one-off legal services, including document drafting and reviews, are provided for a fixed fee with an upfront quote before you proceed.

Prices typically range from £100 to £1,500 depending on the complexity and scope of the work. For ongoing support, Sprintlaw Memberships include options such as legal templates, consultations, a legal helpline and credits for services.

If your project is larger or more complex, we will provide a tailored quote after understanding what you need.

Sprintlaw UK operates fully virtually, with the team working online across the UK to provide support to startups and small businesses nationwide. Many of our team are based in London and often meet at co-working offices, but our operations remain fully digital, ensuring flexibility and efficiency for both our clients and team.