Insights and Analysis

Lights, camera… liability? Freelancers in focus

A Matter of Law podcast series

08 December 2025

As the media and entertainment industry increasingly relies on freelancers and content creators, companies face a rapidly evolving legal landscape with significant risks and responsibilities. Hogan Lovells' Sports, Media, and Entertainment and Employment groups offer practical guidance on navigating these challenges and staying compliant amid changing laws.

Freelancers—writers, photographers, videographers, and other creators—are essential to media organizations, especially as digital platforms and specialized outlets proliferate. However, misclassifying employees as independent contractors can expose companies to litigation, financial penalties, and reputational harm. Legislative changes in key jurisdictions in the Americas, such as California’s ABC test and Mexico’s new gig worker regulations, have heightened compliance requirements and scrutiny.

In this episode of A Matter of Law, Craig Umbaugh is joined by Employment partners Michelle Roberts Gonzales and Mary Carmen Fuertes Abascal to discuss:

The evolving definition of freelancers and the impact of digital transformation
Key risks of worker misclassification and the consequences for media companies
Legal developments in California and Mexico affecting gig workers and subcontracting
The growing influence of AI on freelance roles and industry practices

For more insights and thought leadership on this topic, visit Employment Horizons.

Authored by Craig Umbaugh, Michelle Roberts Gonzales, and Mary Carmen Fuertes Abascal.