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Understanding the Coogan Act: A Shield for Child Actors' Earnings
Definition & Meaning
The Coogan Act, also known as the California Child Actor's Bill, is a significant piece of legislation enacted in 1939. Its primary purpose is to protect the earnings of child actors in California. Under this law, a portion of a child actor's income must be set aside in a trust fund administered by the court. This ensures that the child receives their earnings when they reach adulthood. The Act was established in response to the case of Jackie Coogan, a child star who lost most of his earnings due to mismanagement by his parents. The Coogan Act has been revised over the years to strengthen protections, making it clear that all earnings belong solely to the child, and any unauthorized use of these funds by parents is considered theft.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The Coogan Act is primarily used in the entertainment law sector, specifically concerning child actors. It is relevant in various legal contexts, including:
Contract law, where agreements for child actors must comply with the Act.
Family law, particularly in cases involving parental rights and responsibilities regarding a child's earnings.
Users can manage related forms and procedures through resources like US Legal Forms, which offers templates tailored to comply with the Coogan Act.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A child actor earns $100,000 for a film. According to the Coogan Act, at least 15 percent of this income must be deposited into a court-administered trust fund, ensuring the child has access to these funds when they turn eighteen.
Example 2: A parent uses their child's earnings from acting without permission. Under the Coogan Act, this action could be classified as theft, leading to potential legal consequences for the parent. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The Coogan Act itself is the primary statute governing the protection of child actors' earnings in California. It has been amended multiple times to enhance protections for child actors.
State-by-state differences
State
Key Differences
California
Enforces the Coogan Act, requiring trust funds for child actors.
New York
Similar protections exist but may have different trust fund percentages.
Texas
No specific law equivalent to the Coogan Act; protections may vary.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Coogan Act
Protects child actors' earnings and mandates trust funds.
Specifically applies to child actors in California.
Child Labor Laws
Regulates the employment of minors in various industries.
Broader scope, not limited to actors.
Trust Fund Laws
General laws governing the creation and management of trust funds.
Not specific to child actors or entertainment law.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are a parent of a child actor, ensure that a portion of their earnings is set aside in a court-administered trust fund. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional familiar with entertainment law to ensure compliance with the Coogan Act. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources related to trust funds and contracts for child actors.
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