Partner
Doug is a partner at Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP, specializing in film, television, new media, and music law. He represents a wide range of clients, including producers, financiers, distributors, agents, writers, directors, actors, social media influencers and musicians.
Doug has extensive experience in production legal work, including negotiation of complex talent deals, distribution and broadcast agreements, secured lending and equity financing, international co-productions, rights acquisition, E&O review and tax credit optimization for numerous film and television projects. A working actor, Doug began his legal career as a trial lawyer, fitting in film/TV roles when not in court and performing a decidedly bizarre brand of sketch and improv comedy at night. His insider perspective on the film and TV industry allows him to understand all sides of a deal and help clients maintain creative momentum.
Doug served as co-counsel in Wiseau Studio v. Harper, one of Canada’s leading decisions on copyright “fair dealing”, is a director of the Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame and occasionally contributes to Playback and Broadcast magazines.
Education:
University of Toronto (LL.B., 1992)
York University (B.A. Honours 1989)
Boards/Committees:
Canadian Comedy Foundation for Excellence
ACTRA NCA Negotiation Committee 2008-2009)
ACTRA Agency Agreement Committee (2004)