Models under the age of 18 years are considered minors in most states. If the model is a minor, both parents or the minor's legal guardian should sign the release.
Maryland Release by Model for Images included in Website when Model is a Minor: In Maryland, businesses, websites, or individuals who intend to use images of a minor model must obtain proper consent and release forms. These forms serve as legal agreements ensuring that the rights of the minor model and their guardians are protected. Below is a detailed description and explanation of the different types of Maryland Release by Model for Images included in a website when the model is a minor. 1. Maryland Minor Model Release Form: The Maryland Minor Model Release Form is a crucial document that grants permission for the use of a minor's likeness, image, voice, or name in photographs or videos on a website. This form is typically signed by the minor's parent or legal guardian, who has the authority to give consent on their behalf. It outlines the terms and conditions of image usage and protects both the minor and the responsible party from any potential legal issues. The form may include personal information about the minor, the purpose of image usage, duration, and rights granted. 2. Maryland Parental Consent Form: The Maryland Parental Consent Form is another essential document necessary when a model is a minor. This form acts as an additional layer of protection for all parties involved. It specifically outlines the parent or guardian's consent for the use of their child's image in photographs, videos, or any other media on a website. It is important to note that this form may need to be notarized or signed in the presence of witnesses to ensure its validity. 3. Maryland Website Release Agreement: A Maryland Website Release Agreement is a comprehensive agreement between the party using the minor model's images and the model or their guardian. This agreement lays out the terms, conditions, and limitations under which the minor's images will be used on the website. It ensures that the responsible party obtains the necessary rights and grants permission for image usage. The agreement may contain details about compensation, duration, promotional usage, and the right to modify or reproduce the images. 4. Maryland Release by Model for Images for Commercial Purposes: If the images of the minor model are intended for commercial purposes, a Maryland Release by Model for Images for Commercial Purposes will be required. This release form caters specifically to commercial usage of the images, such as advertising or marketing campaigns. It includes clauses related to compensation, exclusivity, confidentiality, liability, and indemnification. 5. Maryland Release by Model for Images for Non-commercial Purposes: For images solely intended for non-commercial purposes, a Maryland Release by Model for Images for Non-commercial Purposes may be utilized. This release form is applicable when the images are used for personal projects, portfolios, educational purposes, or non-profit organizations. It typically includes clauses specifying the purpose of usage, duration, and rights granted, with no monetary compensation involved. In summary, Maryland has specific release forms and agreements that need to be obtained when using images of a minor model on a website. These forms include the Maryland Minor Model Release Form, Maryland Parental Consent Form, Maryland Website Release Agreement, Maryland Release by Model for Images for Commercial Purposes, and Maryland Release by Model for Images for Non-commercial Purposes. It is essential to ensure compliance with these legal requirements to protect the rights of the minor model and maintain a legally defensible position for the responsible party.
