Posts Tagged ‘independent contractor’

CAN A U.S. ORCHESTRA REFUSE TO PAY A NON-U.S. MUSICIAN?

Tuesday, February 27th, 2018

By Brian Taylor Goldstein Dear Law and Disorder: I am a musician on an O-1 visa that my agent got for me. It covers multiple engagements. Last September, I was hired to be a section musician with an orchestra. They have been paying me up until now, but now they are saying that legally they […]

Read the rest of this article »

The Recipe For Confusion

Thursday, September 11th, 2014

By Brian Taylor Goldstein, Esq.    Dear Law and Disorder: We obtained a three year O-1 visa for one of our artists. We are the artist’s agent and served as his petitioner. A large venue wants to book the artist, but they are insisting that, according to their finance department, they cannot pay us as […]

Read the rest of this article »

Independent Contractors or Employees: What’s In A Name?

Wednesday, April 3rd, 2013

By Brian Taylor Goldstein, Esq. Dear Law and Disorder: I hire musicians to perform, with me. Are they employees or independent contractors? I do not deduct taxes from what I pay them. Should I also make them sign a contract stating that they are independent contractors? Contrary to what many believe, the distinction between who […]

Read the rest of this article »

Are We Liable For A Backstage Brawl?

Wednesday, July 11th, 2012

By Brian Taylor Goldstein Our stage manger slapped one of our actresses during a rehearsal. Are we liable? Anyone who understands the unique stresses and pressures of the performing arts should expect a certain degree of screaming, emotional meltdowns, tantrums, and other inappropriate behavior. Welcome to the theater. However, physical violence crosses the line and, […]

Read the rest of this article »