Jess Kamz wrote:
Basically, I want to get out of my contract. Anyone know of a good loophole (or three) that could release me before my two years are up? Thanks in advance!

you don't need a loophole. you need to read your contract, specifically the termination clause and the conditions of the agreement. there may be a notification period and/or there may be a notification requirement. then you just need a termination letter or termination agreement.

read the &(*%@*#! contracts before you sign them. if the termination clause was omitted, simply talk to them and ask to terminate the agreement in writing. if they agree, make sure there is a formal termination letter.

fyi - it's normal for agencies to run 90-120 day cycles or longer for payment. they don't usually pay until the client pays them. if the client is the advertising company the invoice/payment trail goes like this:

model agency bills ad agency - 30 days+
ad agency bills client - 30/60+ days
client accounts payable cycle - 30 days+
model agency accounts payable 14 days+

almost all model agencies have the same cycle.

also, signing with an agency and waiting for the phone to ring isn't the way to get ahead. you need a good relationship with the booker and take an firm, active and co-operative part in managing your career with a light touch. they have a hard job and you need to make their work as easy as possible. but they also have the top models to herd and getting noticed without bothering the workflow takes a special talent.

Michael Bots wrote:
http://www.napama.org/legal/         will refer to the consumer affairs office in NYC

The problem with all of this discussion is that we need to clarify if we are talking about an agency in the state of NY or NYC.  If it is NYC, then we need to know if it is really an agency or a management company.   The state of New York requires an employment agency license for talent agencies but doesn't require licensing for management companies.  A feature unique to New York City is that most of the big names have labeled themselves as management companies, and thus contend that they do not require a license.  By and large, both the city and the state have acquiesced and allowed the practice.

If we are talking about an NYC management company, rather than a traditional agency, consumer affairs won't have jurisdiction.  Likewise, the rules will all be entirely different. 

I suggest that the OP take the advice of the prior poster, AVD.  Ask an attorney in NY that can research the agency/management company, read the contract and give true, expert advice.

Jules NYC wrote:
I wonder if you can simply ask your agency to relieve you of your exclusivity.
Before I get attacked on here, sometimes you'd be surprised what people will do if you appeal to their reason.

You are not making money, you are not one of their top earners and you are won't make a major shift in their bottom-line if you're non-exclusive.

Tell them you don't want to leave but you need to generate more income.

A contract is a contract but you never know.  I'm sure most agencies want all their models to be exclusive because if one blows up, they want the profits from that.  Plus, you still may 'blow up' and they may hold you to that contract like a pre-nup after a divorce.

Let us know what happens!
I'll be curious and follow this thread.

The above is excellent advice. I would only suggest, if possible, talking to a lawyer first, and putting the "release me" request in writing.