Content Ownership & Contributor Guidance

Disclaimer: This document provides general guidance for contributors, collaborators, and participants in broadcasting, production, and indie film projects managed by Healthy Families First Broadcast & Media and The Cognitive Institute of Dallas, INC. It is not a comprehensive legal document. All contributors should consult an entertainment attorney before signing contracts or taking any legal action.

1. Ownership of Finished Product

All content, including video, audio, and multimedia works created under the direction of Healthy Families First Broadcast & Media and The Cognitive Institute of Dallas, INC., is the exclusive property of the companies. Contributors must sign a work-for-hire agreement, transferring all intellectual property rights. This ensures clear ownership under 17 U.S.C. § 101 (“work made for hire”).

2. Licenses & Permissions

All third-party material, such as music, stock footage, or images, must be properly licensed. Contributors grant the companies an irrevocable, worldwide license to use submitted content for broadcasting, streaming, promotional, and educational purposes. Unauthorized use of third-party content may result in legal action.

3. Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure

All contributors are required to maintain strict confidentiality regarding company materials, project plans, financial information, and unreleased content. A signed NDA ensures that sensitive information is protected and prevents potential misuse that could harm the nonprofit mission.

4. Credits & Attribution

The companies maintain sole discretion over how contributors are credited in any public-facing work. While acknowledgment may be provided, this does not confer ownership or rights to the content. Contributors waive claims to moral rights where allowed by law.

5. Liability & Indemnification

Contributors agree to indemnify and hold harmless Healthy Families First Broadcast & Media and The Cognitive Institute of Dallas, INC. from any claims, damages, or losses arising from their work, including infringement, unauthorized use of third-party material, or misrepresentation. This protects the companies from legal exposure due to third-party errors.

6. Use of Company Resources

Any equipment, software, or facilities provided by the companies remain company property. Contributors are responsible for any damage or unauthorized use, and misuse may result in termination of their agreement.

7. Distribution & Monetization

The companies retain full control over the distribution, broadcast, and monetization of all content. Contributors have no authority to distribute or sell the content without express written permission.

8. Moral Rights & Modifications

Contributors waive moral rights to content where permitted by law. The companies may edit, modify, or repurpose content to comply with branding, accessibility, or nonprofit mission requirements without prior approval.

9. Termination

The companies may terminate contributor agreements at any time for breach of contract, misconduct, or failure to comply with company policies. Upon termination, all rights revert fully to the companies, and contributors must return or delete any company materials in their possession.

10. Archiving & Record Keeping

The companies retain the right to archive all content, contracts, and production materials for audit, legal compliance, or historical purposes. Contributors acknowledge that archiving is essential for legal protection and nonprofit transparency.

11. Insurance & Risk Management

Contributors are encouraged to maintain personal insurance as needed. The companies maintain production and errors & omissions (E&O) insurance to protect against claims relating to copyright, defamation, or privacy violations.

Important: This document is intended as a general overview. It does not replace formal contracts or legal advice. Contributors and participants should always review individual agreements and consult qualified legal counsel regarding intellectual property, broadcast regulations, and nonprofit compliance.