This might seem like a dumb question, but I can't get ahold of the person who I usually consult for legal matters, so I figured I'd turn here.

I've been in talks with a production company for some time now for an option on my screenplay.  We've gone over the negotiations (with my counsel), and settled on a final contract.

They sent me the final version today.  However, I'm wondering how I go about handling this from here.  The contract they sent me (PDF version) is unsigned.  Do I ask them to sign it?  Do I sign it myself, make a copy, and then send it?  

What's the protocol for signing contracts?

Don't do anything with the PDF.  They need to send your representative a hard copy signed contract for your signature.  That's legally binding.  You copying a PDF and signing it could mean that you have two "FINAL" documents in play.

Quoted from Tierney Don't do anything with the PDF.  They need to send your representative a hard copy signed contract for your signature.  That's legally binding.  You copying a PDF and signing it could mean that you have two "FINAL" documents in play.

That's what I figured. Thanks!