Proper use of 'Written by'

[ScriptNurse]

That's a possibility, it all depends on what the arrangements are between all three writers. If this script is a complete rewrite of the original story, you can likely cut the original co-writer out altogether. It depends on what your writing agreement is with that writer.

[abear111]

From what you described, if Z is still in it, I think you might do something like

Written by X & Y
Adapted from an original screenplay by Y & Z

But that could be completely wrong.

[ScriptNurse]

Does the original partner approve of this new arrangement? If the story has changed significantly, I image the original writing partner could be dropped from the credits -- BUT -- it had better be significant. Best arrangement is to make him a willing partner in this one project with your new writing partner, even if it's a lesser percentage. The choice you present is: We can change the script enough to cut you out -- OR -- we can cut you in on this NEW version with a lesser percentage than we had with just you and I.

Your alternative is to scrap this project and move on.

[Archangel_Gabriel]

Hey there,

I have a script in the works, well for years now, no surprise there. Anyway here's my question.

Initially ,it was just me, no problem. The I invited a friend to help. A 60/40 split with regards to contribution his favor however, I hated the script. SO now, some years later, I have a new partner. She is basically writing the story with my direction, but creating new content/ideas/etc. She's also using elements and characters from the script we created some years ago. Some of the characters were created by my former partner, but I've greatly changed them from their original conception, some have remained similar to their origin.

SO after all that feeble quibbling my question is this, What are the legal and more importantly ethical means to give proper credit for 'written by'. Would it be:

Written By
X
Y
Z

With X being the new writer? OR would be:

Written by
X
With additional material written By
Y
Z

OR yet again: something I haven't thought of yet.

Thanks folks
AG