Lawyers map
>433
experienced lawyers
Filter by
11 Sep, 2024 by Brandon g.
Alex and his team, ESPECIALLY Sarah P., were on top of my car accident case from day 1. They were very transparent about their fees, they communicated with me at every step of the way...and my settlement was WAY more than I had ever thought it would be!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!!
Read more
31 Aug, 2024 by Justin conner
Ryan & Jamie are the best. They worked hard and kept me informed along the way!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Norris pittman jr
I feel that you did an excellent job bringing the case to a great conclusion - A job well done. The case was resolved much quicker than we thought it would. We would not hesitate to use your office again. We were very satisfied with your services. Thank you so much Mr Weatherby!
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Bruce nicklin
Unbelievably good service. In today's world it's almost impossible to get this level of service I'll recommend your company to everybody
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Top wings
Nebo Law Team is incredible! The entire experience was amazing and professional. Thanks Nebo Law for all of your support.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline davis
Ms. Nebo was very informative on our questions regarding the 1st phase of starting a franchise. Would highly recommend.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Christopher bradford
Had 4 year long wait for a trial for a DUI and with this being the first trial I’ve ever experienced Sean guided me through the process stayed on top of my case and showed up to court prepared. He’s a honest man with integrity if he feels like he can’t win he’s not wasting your time. If I could put him on retainer I would this is the Lawyer for you injury or criminal!
Read more
26 Aug, 2023 by Gia
Christopher is the best lawyer I could have asked for. He has ALWAYS gotten me the maximum for my accidents. He always makes himself available if I have questions or concerns.
Read more
13 Jul, 2023 by Cameron cannon
I would recommend this for anyone, especially if it's your first legal service. They provided me with valuable guidance and representation throughout the entire process. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they were professional, responsive, and dedicated to protecting my rights in Atlanta.
Read more
28 Apr, 2024 by Chris gann
Allen is the best! He's the guy you want fighting for you. He's incredibly smart, personable, and encouraging. He often checked in with me not only to give me updates on my case, but just to see how I was doing. I needed hope and reassurance during this experience, and Allen was always there for me. He's honest and genuinely cares about his clients. I'm hoping I won't need a lawyer again, but in case I do, I feel safe knowing I'll have Allen on my side.
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by David gann
Allen is top notch. He went above and beyond to resolve our situation. He stayed in constant communication with us and met us as needed during this process. Top notch attorney and person.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Dewayne lee
Amazing, briliant and one of best working lawyers to have handle case for myself. Allen was able to have all my charges dropped from and a traffic stop in a rental car that wasn't my fault to start. But a old out of state charge may could have lead to additional charges. He is your source and a good attorney to have and get your court case taking care of.
Thanks Allen,
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Tiffany not only handled my case with excellence and professionalism, she went out of her way to extend herself to make the process as simple as possible. Whenever I had questions, she was only a call away and always made sure all my options were on the table. She is an A1 professional and highly recommended for any case you have in Georgia.
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Amadu wiltshire
Attorney Simmons acted as an advisory counsel on a civil matter. I must say she is professional, knowledgeable and is an excellent guide. I full endorse her and encourage all persons to contact her for legal services.
Read more
31 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I will endorse and recommend her for consultation and legal services any day of the of the week. Represented me in my case matter and I’m very fortunate for her services.
Read more
21 Dec, 2020 by Scott
We highly recommend Lerae & Funderburg Law. Lerae was incredibly instrumental in handling our case. Her knowledge, strategy and experience is 2nd to none.
Lerae ensured our case stayed on track (prevented stalling). High attention to detail and made sure all parties had full transparency. We cannot thank her enough for the work she did handling our case. Professional, Informative & a pleasure to work with. Funderburg Law is phenomenal.
We have high praise and recommend Lerae & Funderburg Law to all of our colleagues. Highly Recommended! A++
Read more
10 Nov, 2019 by Kai
After months of tireless search for a credible attorney in the state of Georgia, one whose knowledge includes small business startup and registered agents, I found Attorney Lerae Funderburg.
As a branding agent, I wanted to provide my client with the services he deserved-given that this would be his first big endeavor in this area. After my initial contact, Attorney Funderburg immediately responded to my email and within seconds, we arranged a 15 mins phone conference to discuss my client’s needs and ways in which she would be able to assist.
Our business officially started on September 18 and less than a month later, we had a registered business and a registered agent-Attorney Funderburg- who readily made herself available to answer all business inquires and calls-even while on vacation.
This past week, my client and I sat down with Attorney Funderburg for a meeting, beyond the standard email and phone conversations, and let’s just say that her warmth, attention to details, drive, commitment, and compassion for clients showed from her greeting to the very end of the face-to-face meeting.
On behalf of my client and I, we highly recommend the services offered by Attorney Funderburg, to any small business owner desiring quality service and attention to your startup needs.
Thank you, Attorney Funderburg, this is only the beginning of a budding business relationship and we indeed look forward to conducting more business transactions with your firm.
Read more
29 Mar, 2018 by Jabari
Lerae is an awesome attorney! I have consulted with her personally on multiple cases, and have witnessed her diligence and expertise up close. She will treat your case with the utmost care. She is my go to referral for entertainment, estate, and business law matters.
Read more
27 Jun, 2023 by Latangela
When I say Mrs.King is the one call , that’s all lawyer you need SHE IS IT! Very understanding , accommodating as well , communication is very important. She always answering questions and don’t beat around the bush when she gives you answers . All money well spent with her , most definitely will not be disappointed!!! You will be able to get back to your regular life with her!!! Thank you so much Mrs.KING !!!!!
Read more
14 Oct, 2017 by Eric
I must say, hiring Ms. Shania King, as my attorney was the best legal decision I've ever made... And trust me when I tell you this I've had a lot of legal issues that needed excellent legal advice.
Attorney King is beyond exellent!!! Watching her argue my petition to the court was like watching a chess master making their final move for the checkmate! I've had a lot of attorney's in my life time and I believe she is one of the best in the world!
Thank you Attorney King for making the impossible possible!!! My petiton was granted!
Read more
18 Apr, 2017 by Sherry
I was served with a TPO with a very short time to hire representations for court date. Ms King returned my call within 5 min., met with me within 48 hours, prepared and in court within 72 working hours. Ms King is very passionate to her clients situation. My case came out with a dismissal! Thank you, Ms King
Read more
04 Feb, 2021 by Marjorie
It has truly been a pleasure working with Mr. Forrest K. Clinard for the past 6 years. I found his information on "Avvo" in 2015. After looking through numerous entertainment attorneys on this site, I just kept coming back to his profile and reading all the wonderful comments from clients who have worked with him. When we connected by phone and I explained my legal matters, I knew from the first phone call, that there was no need for me to search any further for an entertainment attorney. Over the years, I've learned so much terms used in the entertainment industry like option rights, life rights, option period, purchase agreement contracts, etc. Forrest's wealth of knowledge and years of experience in the industry gave me the fuel to start my production company. This year we gained the attention of a well known production company in Hollywood, with a story that I've been developing. Forrest was exceptional in guiding me through the process once the project got sold, as he made sure all the necessary paperwork was in place, thoroughly reviewing each document with me and making sure I had a good understanding of these contracts before signing them. Forrest is a true professional in the business, compassionate, honest, trustworthy and just a good hearted individual who puts the needs of his clients first and at the end of the day he gets the job done.
I wish this site gave " 10 stars or more, because he would be so deserving of each one! I'm so blessed to have listened to my intuition when choosing him to represent me and I know that we will be working together for many years to come. Forrest is simply the BEST !!!
Read more
04 Feb, 2021 by Ryan
Forrest has been essential for our small business with all of our legal needs. He's professional, responsive, thorough, and reliable, and highly recommended.
Read more
11 Mar, 2020 by Tim
I attended the talk Forrest Clinard gave on copyright and aspects of intellectual property law. The presentation was thorough, with explanations of the history and current status of copyright and fair use. Mr. Clinard offered several examples of the do's and don'ts when using brand names and trade marked products. Ample time was given to questions from the audience. An informative presentation -
Read more
08 Sep, 2023 by Omri
I engaged Mark in my capacity as an exec at a growing online business and he represented our interests exceptionally well. Mark is an attentive listener, sharp thinker, and is easy to work with, but most importantly he achieved a great outcome for us. Mark is a sophisticated attorney and clearly has a strong command of the law, but it doesn’t come at the expense of clarity. He has a knack for explaining legal concepts in concise terms that are easy to follow. His guidance and communication filled me and my counterparts with confidence that we were in good hands as we navigated a tricky and ambiguous issue. He proved to be an efficient executor and was very fair with his billing (a rare find in a capable attorney, from my experience!) Every touch-point with Mark and his firm was frictionless and easy. Mark will be our go-to guy for business needs, and someone I’d hire for personal matters as well. He’s a good one.
Read more
24 Feb, 2020 by Keshia white
Best Closing attorney!!
Read more
06 Jun, 2019 by Paula leggett
Vickie Sadler is a Woman of Character and Integrity
Following an accident involving a SUV and 18 Wheel Dump Truck on an Interstate my husband and I were both simply glad to be alive. We were not interested in a settlement just our medical bills, item replacement and reimbursement for the expenses associated with the event to which we were traveling as I was driving a company vehicle. We felt that this was something we could handle ourselves with the two other insurance companies involved but after relentless and wise counsel from leaders in my company we sought out our own counsel.
We had no intention of receiving money we were not entitled to and Vickie Sadler assured us that she understood and would work at the highest level of integrity on our behalf. We closed our settlement in May with all of the appropriate funds being received, with clear consciences and an intense level of regard, trust and appreciation for Vickie Sadler.
Read more
20 Nov, 2017 by Peter
Thomas Reynolds Law Group was referred to me by the Georgia Bar Association after I had multiple issues finding an attorney.
Its been the best referal Ive ever gotten.
Thomas and his staff are the Best!!!
They just Won another major ruling for my case in the Federal Appeals Court.
Its the 2nd time they have done so.
Amazing!!!
Thomas Reynolds Law Group has been a great asset to me and my case.
My case has been difficult and I am not the easiest client to deal with either.
Thomas and his staff have always handled me and my case with the highest level of professionalism and expertise.
I could not recommend a better legal team to represent your legal needs.
Peter Meyer
Proud client of Thomas Reynolds Law Group
Read more
01 Sep, 2016 by Earnestine
I hired Thomas to handle a Real Estate case that other lawyers gave me a hassle about taking. Thomas gladly took the case and with his professional and straight forward approach got the case settled in my favor.
Read more
25 Jun, 2015 by Carolyn
I would recommend these attorneys to any of my family and friends. They were very knowledgeable and fought for me even when I had a citation against me. The police officers found me at fault and gave me a ticket even though I was innocent. No lawyers would take my case because I had received the citation, and I had just about given up on the case but these attorneys picked up the case, fought hard, took it all the way to trial and delivered me a WIN! To God be the Glory!
Read more
06 Jan, 2022 by Ayrianne
Karen Robinson was a great help to me. Not only did she get me through my situation, but she also taught me about things I needed to know. I recommend her to any “first” time writers who require guidance through all the legal mess of the writing world. Karen maintains friendly yet professional behavior, and her patience is immaculate. You won’t go wrong if you work with her.
Read more
18 Dec, 2014 by Jaci
Karen came to me already highly recommended and did not disappoint. She is knowledgeable and detail oriented. Beyond that, she applies her skills using thoughtful analysis and deep compassion. It is obvious that she is driven to achieve the best outcome for the client. This is what makes Karen absolutely invaluable. She has now handled two delicate cases for me. I’ve come to trust her advice, strategy and tactics so I am very pleased to recommend her services.
Read more
06 Oct, 2014 by Tim
"It is with much thanks and appreciation that I recommend Attorney Karen M. Robinson. As owner of A’s Ice House Jewelers, a jewelry store in Marietta, GA, I found Karen to be exceptionally professional, understanding, knowledgeable, caring, informative, and one who pays special attention to the best interest of her clients. She in my opinion, is the quintessence of Attorneys."
- Tim J, Owner – A’s Ice House Jewelers
Read more
11 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I am extremely pleased with the results of my case due to Mr. Rose’s exceptional services. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a lawyer who advocates vigorously for their clients. I was constantly updated on my case; never left unsure or worried!
Read more
11 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Rose a couple months ago to help with a legal situation I had been dealing with for a while. Although reaching out to several different attorneys, Mr. Rose was the only one who was attentive enough to make me feel that he had my best interest in mind. He was attentive to every detail and he truly had a sense of urgency with dealing with my case—which helped ease my mind. Legal cases can be very stressful, but I must say Mr. Rose was very patient with all my questions and constantly made himself available to address my concerns. On top of his expertise in crisis management and his professionalism, he was very personable which made it easier to discuss any problems or frustrations I had with my case. Mr. Rose will definitely be my attorney of choice if I ever find myself in a legal mess again.
Read more
24 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Rose was exceptional in providing contract review, negotiation tips, and clarity of contract terms and amendments to contract. In that service, he was steadfast, clear, concise, and precise. At every point of emphasis I was re-assured my best interests would be at the forefront. I will continue to see John for any and all contractual and legal matters.
Read more
16 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
She was great !!! Very knowledgeable, helpful and personable. I will definitely recommend Ms. Brooks for anyone.
Read more
13 Jan, 2019 by Anthony
The consultation I received was not only thorough, it was concise and made me feel confident in the overall plan. Aurielle goes above and beyond and combs through the task at hand, communicates and gets the job done. She was also to come up with plenty of alternatives to some of the obstacles we came across. I would recommend Aurielle to anyone that needs to get the job done, without having to worry if it will be completed correctly. Her personality made the experience even more enjoyable. She offered a sense of relief when I saw how relatable she was and understood the goal I had in mind. I will definitely be hiring Aurielle again in the future.
Read more
09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Aurielle was first hired to trademark my business logo. She kept me updated throughout the entire process which led me to hiring her for two more trademarks. Aurielle is very good at communicating and easy to work with.
Read more
27 Feb, 2020 by Iraida
Enrique assisted me with a demand letter to my apartment complex. There were issues with a leak in my apartment, that they could not fix, which resulted in mold. My furniture was damaged, and the humidity from the leak caused mold to spread everywhere. Enrique informed me of my rights as a tenant and was able to get the apartment complex to reimburse me for the damages and cost of moving to the unit.
He also assisted me in reviewing a non-compete/non-solicitation agreement with my current employer.
I would definitely recommend!
Read more
31 Jan, 2020 by David
Enrique was exactly who and what I needed when I was offered a production deal on my autobiography. He communicated often and provided valuable information and insight all the way through to execution. Since our initial transaction together, Enrique has remained my attorney on all matters relating to my production deal. I am grateful to have someone like Enrique helping me with these contracts. He cares. This isn't just work for him.
Read more
31 Jan, 2020 by Chozy
Enrique helped me with multiple copyright and trademark registrations in the past year. He also helped me form my first LLC. He was easy to work with, knowledgable and passionate about helping others. A++ in my book.
Read more
13 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Mufwene has given us everything you would look for in excellent representation. If there is any issue(s) they are dealt with promptly and professionally. One of the most impressive attributes is her outstanding "character". She is supported by a solid network of top tier legal eagles. She is calm, cool and collective and fair. Her effectiveness has led us giving additional referrals who are equally pleased.
Read more
13 May, 2015 by Sean brian
I have worked with many attorneys
on several different levels that surrounds
the entertainment industry also she has been very informative, responsive, attorney with extensive litigation experience and just a pleasure to work with on every level.
Read more
11 Jul, 2017 by Russ
Originally, I was searching for an attorney to help me sort out all of the issues involved with starting an online business. Since then, I have found numerous reasons to call on AJ for his wisdom, guidance, and contract production services. He truly cares about his clients and their businesses and I'd highly recommend him!
Read more
10 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Having AJ help me navigate a difficult contract situation was the best move I could have made. His knowledge and communication skills throughout the process were excellent and made all the difference for me. I would undoubtedly have him represent me again.
Read more
16 Sep, 2015 by Cydni m
I ended up meeting/working with Omar by chance, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason. He has been instrumental in helping me on the legal side of building my business. He provides timely responses and is able to break down legal issues to a level that most of us can follow. I would definitely recommend him to a friend or anyone looking for legal services. He's geat!
Read more
15 Sep, 2015 by Gabriel
I originally consulted with Mr. Landery for advice on how I should proceed with my music. I had already written/recorded a lot and wasn't sure about the next step. I knew I wanted to make the right one so I figured talking to an IP attorney would provide me with the information I needed. Thankfully I stumbled upon Mr. Landery. He not only gave me options but even offered to show me how to do a few things myself so I could save some money. I'm a struggling artist so every little bit helps. After doing that, how could I not hire the guy?
Read more
21 Mar, 2015 by Rlb
Attorney Pearson does a remarkable job representing her clients. She took the time to listen and understand my family's complex and difficult situation. She kept us informed and responded to our concerns. Her recommendations were based on facts and the law rather than opinion. She and her staff are highly qualified, profession and handled our matter in a timely and efficient manner.
Read more
12 Mar, 2015 by Anthony
"I cannot say enough wonderful things about Laquetta Pearson. I was treated with respect and there was not one time I felt that my case was not important to me. Great communication, phone calls answered personally & quickly. I would highly recommend anyone seeking an attorney for their case...look no further, you have found the best!!"
Read more
24 Apr, 2017 by Ben
Chris Troutman is the champion of the client. Very patient. Very efficient. Able to process legal jargon and communicate to lay people with normal language. Would definitely recommend to family and friends as well as request his services for myself in the future.
Read more
28 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Keisha is one of the most professional attorneys I have ever worked with. When she says she will do something she does it to the best of her ability and delivers great quality. I love working with her and would recommend that anyone who is looking for a good attorney to find her.
Read more
17 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Sunnita Blount is an amazing practitioner of law. She understands and interprets the law in a sophisticated manner.
Read more
07 Jul, 2015 by Tim
Beth was incredible handling our daughter's management contract. She was very courteous and professional. She was available to meet with us on very short notice. Beth was almost always available for a call and if not she quickly returned our call. I would recommend her services for any singer/song writer who is about to sign a management contract.
Read more
28 Sep, 2017 by Arvind raina
18 Sep, 2023 by Shannon
When I found Ms. Koefod, I was really frustrated as I had consulted with a few other attorneys who did not seem to take me seriously. I started out with an e-commerce business and launched a Marketing firm but am pretty young and it is all online. I felt like Ms. Koefod was not only really well versed on what I needed, but also took me seriously and gave me great advice about suggestions to protect my business. She took care of my business formation and got my trademarks filed. It was nice to know the fee up front since everything was a flat rate and I got office hours and personalized attention that was focused on my specific business needs. She was very responsive and helpful and I now use her as fractional General Counsel so that I have an excellent attorney if and when things come up as my business grows! I felt really comfortable working with her. She wasn't stuffy and spoke to me in a clear way. The office is also really up to date on technology so I could do all my communications with them through my phone since I am on the go so much. I am suggesting Ms. Koefod to friends who are starting businesses and even side hustles and was excited to hear that the firm services can grow along with my company. It felt like a very tailored bespoke solution.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Yasmine jandali
Knowledgeable, professional, highly recommend. Jeff Cohen is exceptional.
Read more
20 Apr, 2024 by Jonas elrod
Cal and Jeff are both great - they gave me good legal advice and helped take lots of worry off my plate. Highly recommended
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Charity haulk
Very professional and knowledgeable Law Firm! Mr. Bomar was able to answer all my questions and get me the help I needed! I would definitely use them again and recommend Bomar Law Firm to a friend or family member!
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Aline m.
William was very helpful, patient and extremely helpful during the entire process. So thankful we got to work with him! He is very personable and quick to answer to any questions you may have. I would not hesitate hiring his services.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Venise williams
Mr. Hunter is very knowledgeable about different types of Trusts and Wills for a variety of situation. The firm is professional and I felt very comfortable creating a Will and a Trust for my family. I highly recommend this firm.
Read more
19 Oct, 2024 by Solomom porter
Mr. Hunter was very professional and provided outstanding service. He answered all our questions throughout the process. I highly recommend his legal services!!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Olivia white
28 Oct, 2023 by Mackenzie clark
08 Sep, 2023 by Kayla jones
This firm gets the job done! They will go above and beyond for you, they truly care. I’ve worked with a few firms previously and none compare to Merritt and Merritt! The customer service is top tier from the staff as well as the attorney!
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Entertainment Lawyer Can Do for You
An entertainment lawyer specializes in legal matters related to the entertainment industry, including film, television, music, publishing, sports, and digital media. They assist artists, creators, producers, and companies with contract negotiations, intellectual property protection, licensing deals, royalties, and disputes. Entertainment lawyers also help clients navigate complex industry regulations and ensure their creative rights are protected.
Whether you're an actor, musician, producer, writer, or influencer, an entertainment lawyer can help safeguard your rights and ensure that your business deals are legally sound.
When Should I Hire an Entertainment Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an entertainment lawyer in a variety of situations, including:
- Contract negotiations: If you're signing a contract for a film role, recording deal, or publishing agreement, an entertainment lawyer can review the terms and negotiate on your behalf to ensure your interests are protected.
- Intellectual property protection: If you're a creator (musician, writer, filmmaker), an entertainment lawyer can help secure copyrights, trademarks, and licensing agreements to protect your work from unauthorized use.
- Disputes or litigation: If you’re involved in a legal dispute, such as breach of contract, copyright infringement, or defamation, an entertainment lawyer can represent you in negotiations or court.
- Representation agreements: If you’re hiring or entering into a contract with a manager, agent, or publicist, a lawyer can ensure that the terms of representation are fair and comply with industry standards.
- Royalties and licensing: If you're licensing your work for use in film, TV, or digital platforms, a lawyer can negotiate royalty agreements to ensure you receive proper compensation.
- Talent contracts: Whether you are hiring talent for a project or negotiating your own appearance or performance fees, an entertainment lawyer can ensure the terms are legally binding and beneficial.
- Film and television production: If you're producing a film, TV show, or other media project, a lawyer can handle contracts with crew, talent, and distributors, and ensure that all legal aspects of the production are covered.
Hiring a lawyer early in your entertainment career or project can prevent costly legal mistakes and protect your creative and financial interests.
What Does an Entertainment Lawyer Do?
An entertainment lawyer provides a range of legal services to professionals in the entertainment industry. Their responsibilities often include:
- Reviewing and drafting contracts: Entertainment lawyers review, draft, and negotiate contracts for talent, production, licensing, distribution, and endorsements. This ensures that the terms are fair and protect their client's interests.
- Securing intellectual property rights: They help clients obtain copyrights, trademarks, and patents for their creative works, and assist with licensing those rights to third parties.
- Negotiating deals: Whether it's a film deal, music contract, publishing agreement, or endorsement, an entertainment lawyer ensures that their client gets favorable terms and is protected from potential legal pitfalls.
- Handling disputes and litigation: In cases where contract terms are violated, intellectual property is infringed, or other legal issues arise, an entertainment lawyer can represent clients in negotiations, arbitration, or court.
- Advising on industry regulations: Entertainment lawyers help clients navigate industry-specific laws, such as union regulations, labor laws, or FCC rules for broadcasting.
- Managing royalties and residuals: They assist in tracking and collecting royalties or residuals for music, film, television, and digital content to ensure clients receive the compensation they are owed.
- Talent agreements and representation: Entertainment lawyers often work with talent agents and managers, ensuring that their clients' representation agreements are legally sound and financially beneficial.
How Are Entertainment Lawyers Paid?
Entertainment lawyers may be paid in various ways, depending on the type of service provided. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many entertainment lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as drafting a contract or filing a trademark, some lawyers offer flat fees. Flat fees are common in simpler or one-time transactions.
- Contingency fee: In some cases, especially when working with talent, entertainment lawyers may charge a contingency fee, meaning they take a percentage (usually 5% to 10%) of the client's earnings from a particular project.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal services, such as managing contracts and royalties over a long period, a lawyer may require a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services, and the lawyer bills against the retainer as they work on the case.
It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer at the outset to ensure you understand the total cost of legal services.
How Much Does an Entertainment Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an entertainment lawyer depends on the complexity of your legal needs, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of fee arrangement. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Entertainment lawyers typically charge between $250 and $1,000 per hour. More experienced lawyers with extensive connections in the entertainment industry may charge higher rates.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a basic contract, flat fees can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the agreement.
- Contingency fees: Lawyers working on a contingency basis typically charge between 5% and 10% of the earnings from a project or deal. For example, if a lawyer helps you secure a $100,000 film contract, their fee might be $5,000 to $10,000.
- Retainers: For ongoing legal representation, retainers can range from $2,500 to $50,000 or more, depending on the scope of the legal services and the length of the engagement.
Always discuss the costs and fee structure during your initial consultation to ensure that the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Entertainment Lawyer
Before hiring an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they are the right fit for your career or project. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have in entertainment law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in your specific area of the entertainment industry, whether it's film, music, television, or digital media. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fee, or contingency fee, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
Do you have industry connections?
Ask about the lawyer’s experience and connections in the entertainment industry, which can be valuable for contract negotiations and deal-making. -
What contracts or legal issues should I be aware of?
Ask the lawyer to identify potential legal pitfalls in your specific project or career and how they would help you avoid them. -
What intellectual property protections do I need?
If you’re a creator, ask how the lawyer will help protect your intellectual property rights and prevent others from using your work without permission. -
How will you negotiate deals on my behalf?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to negotiating contracts, ensuring they focus on getting favorable terms while maintaining strong industry relationships. -
What happens if there is a dispute?
Ask the lawyer how they handle disputes, including whether they aim for negotiation or litigation and how they would protect your interests.
How to Check the Credibility of an Entertainment Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable entertainment lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for entertainment law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in entertainment law and have successfully handled cases or negotiations relevant to your industry.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer, especially in terms of contract negotiations and industry knowledge.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on entertainment-related matters.
- Check for industry memberships: Membership in entertainment law organizations, such as the Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Law Section, can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and regulations.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Current contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts you have already signed or are considering, such as talent agreements, recording contracts, publishing deals, or management contracts.
- Intellectual property portfolio: Provide details about any copyrights, trademarks, or other intellectual property you own or are seeking to protect.
- Project details: If you’re working on a specific project (e.g., film, album, book), provide a summary of the project, your role, and any legal needs, such as contract negotiations or copyright protection.
- List of collaborators or stakeholders: Provide information about other parties involved in your project, such as agents, managers, producers, or distributors, and any contracts related to them.
- Questions about your legal needs: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, potential issues, and how the lawyer can help you protect your interests.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your legal needs effectively and provide the best possible advice tailored to your entertainment career or project.
