Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Pennsylvania

Re: work-for-hire question

The "governing law" clause is used to define which books of law would be consulted to construe the contract and determine rights and liabilities under it. If one doesn't have a preference for a particular State's law, one could just delete it without invalidating the agreement. Of course, one would initial the place where the words have been crossed out, to confirm that this was part of the document as signed by the parties.

Re: work-for-hire question

The provision you cite is called a "conflict of laws" provision and is intended to establish which state's law will control the interpretation of the contract. For example, if one party sues the other the laws of evidence and civil procedure of the state you name will apply even if the case is heard in another state. The choice, if you are drafting the agreement, is yours but the writer may disagree. Only an attorney familiar with Pennsylvania contract law can advise you whether Pennsylvania or California law would be preferable for you. There are various ways to negotiate in and around this provision but you should retain an experienced entertainment attorney to counsel you.

As to your second question, if you are in doubt just leave "FOR (WRITER'S NAME)" off. The work-for-hire language, if properly written, will make it clear that you are deemed the author of the work.