On January 16, 2025, Natalie Shammas, the WCYR’s chairperson, gave an engaging talk about the legal side of writing. She focused on two big topics: contracts and defamation. As both an author and a lawyer, Natalie brought a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the table, and her insights were truly invaluable. Her number one piece of advice? Always consult a lawyer. If you’re ever faced with signing a contract—whether it’s with a publisher, an agent, or anyone else—getting professional help is a must.
Contracts Clarified
Contracts are a part of almost every writer’s journey. Whether it’s a publishing agreement, an agent contract, an editor contract, or a work-for-hire deal, you’ll likely need to sign on the dotted line at some point. Natalie broke them down for us, explaining what various terms mean, and which ones you’ll want to pay special attention to. Drawing from her own experiences, Natalie also shared some personal tips when it comes to agent contracts. As she put it, an agent should be your partner—someone you trust completely, with a clear contract that ensures they’re always working in your best interest.
The Legal Side of Self-publishing
Since many of our members choose to self-publish, Natalie spent some time discussing legal concerns you should consider if you choose to go that route. For example, each print-on-demand publisher has its own requirements, so make sure you understand what’s expected of you. We also spent some time discussing editor agreements, both from the perspective of the writer seeking to have her work reviewed and the editor who agrees to provide that service.
Defamation and How to Avoid It
Natalie wrapped up her talk with an overview of defamation, diving into the differences between libel and slander, the burden of proof, and the defenses against defamation accusations. She also explained how these cases might play out in court.
Conclusion
Natalie Shammas’s talk was a treasure trove of practical advice for writers of all levels. While contracts and defamation might not be the most exciting parts of the writing world, they’re critical for protecting your work and your rights. The big takeaway? Don’t try to navigate these waters alone. Consult a lawyer, know what to look for, and be proactive about safeguarding your career.