CREATOR ADVICE If you’re a new or experienced creator, treat every comic book contract,no matter the company’s size,as something that must be reviewed by a lawyer. Some companies don’t have your best interests in mind, and many use generic or AI‑generated contracts that aren’t tailored to your situation with expectations you will edit them. A qualified attorney protects your rights, ensures transparency in accounting, and secures your ability to audit the company if needed. I keep hearing about creators getting taken advantage of, and this is the only reliable way to protect yourself. The more experienced the lawyer is with entertainment or publishing contracts, the better. If you’re creating new characters for a larger company, always request co‑ownership and creator‑share paperwork. They will not offer it—you have to ask. Some companies may offer a buyout, but every detail must be in writing. Handshake deals don’t hold up in court, and in my experience, companies often deny they ever happened. Slow down, get everything documented, and protect your work. Be smart. Learn from others mistakes, not your own.