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07 Feb, 2025 by J-pac plummer
My wife and I, Highly recommend Riley/Ersoff LLP... Grant, Victoria and their staff, took our case and got us JUSTICE!!...Grant was on top of things from Day One,, he made sure our Bully landlord and his Defense Lawyers treated us fairly and we weren't taken advantage of...his staff scheduled and even assisted us, in getting to and from Dr's appointment's, that we couldn't have gotten to on our own...He checked in on us regularly and kept us up to date on what was needed, and what's going to happen next... Always answered our calls... Grant fought,, and he Fought Hard!!,, It was comforting, knowing that my wife and I were not alone,, Grant and staff were in our corner....He got us $ALOT OF MONEY$!!...Even after it was all done and over, Grant "Personally" checked in on us and made sure that we got a new place to live, and we were in good shape, to pick up the pieces and start a New Life... That's the kind of Lawyer and Man he is....So, Thank You!!.... Sincerely...
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06 Feb, 2025 by Magnolia lopez
Gracias a Dios porque todo salio bien y a los abogados muy buen trabajo recibimos más de lo que pensamos recomendados 100%
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06 Feb, 2025 by Tomas bailon
Se nos quemo el apartamento. Y no sabiamos que hacer. Pensabamos que no teniamos caso. Pero aqui con RILEY ERSOFF. nos ayudaron con el caso. Se los recomiendo 100% gracias RILEY ERSOFF
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07 Feb, 2025 by J-pac plummer
My wife and I, Highly recommend Riley/Ersoff LLP... Grant, Victoria and their staff, took our case and got us JUSTICE!!...Grant was on top of things from Day One,, he made sure our Bully landlord and his Defense Lawyers treated us fairly and we weren't taken advantage of...his staff scheduled and even assisted us, in getting to and from Dr's appointment's, that we couldn't have gotten to on our own...He checked in on us regularly and kept us up to date on what was needed, and what's going to happen next... Always answered our calls... Grant fought,, and he Fought Hard!!,, It was comforting, knowing that my wife and I were not alone,, Grant and staff were in our corner....He got us $ALOT OF MONEY$!!...Even after it was all done and over, Grant "Personally" checked in on us and made sure that we got a new place to live, and we were in good shape, to pick up the pieces and start a New Life... That's the kind of Lawyer and Man he is....So, Thank You!!.... Sincerely...
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06 Feb, 2025 by Magnolia lopez
Gracias a Dios porque todo salio bien y a los abogados muy buen trabajo recibimos más de lo que pensamos recomendados 100%
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06 Feb, 2025 by Tomas bailon
Se nos quemo el apartamento. Y no sabiamos que hacer. Pensabamos que no teniamos caso. Pero aqui con RILEY ERSOFF. nos ayudaron con el caso. Se los recomiendo 100% gracias RILEY ERSOFF
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23 Dec, 2024 by Nahid mizrahi
They are so helpful and professional here. I had a particularly complicated case but Simon made it so easy for me. He gave me all the best advice and worked so hard for my accident case.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Tali younessian
I HIGHLY recommend Simon. He is by far the best lawyer I have ever come across. He is nothing but professional, hard working, kind, and a genuine person. He goes above and beyond for his clients. He shows so much care and dedication to all of his clients and I guarantee you that you will not find a better lawyer in all of LA. He has so much paitence and wisdom and is a good neshama. He even went out of his way to check how I was doing after the case! He is truly one of a kind and finding people like him is super rare.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Kevin galvez
Simon and Nate have been amazing since the beginning they took my auto case. They are phenomenal attorneys definitely recommend them!
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07 Feb, 2025 by J-pac plummer
My wife and I, Highly recommend Riley/Ersoff LLP... Grant, Victoria and their staff, took our case and got us JUSTICE!!...Grant was on top of things from Day One,, he made sure our Bully landlord and his Defense Lawyers treated us fairly and we weren't taken advantage of...his staff scheduled and even assisted us, in getting to and from Dr's appointment's, that we couldn't have gotten to on our own...He checked in on us regularly and kept us up to date on what was needed, and what's going to happen next... Always answered our calls... Grant fought,, and he Fought Hard!!,, It was comforting, knowing that my wife and I were not alone,, Grant and staff were in our corner....He got us $ALOT OF MONEY$!!...Even after it was all done and over, Grant "Personally" checked in on us and made sure that we got a new place to live, and we were in good shape, to pick up the pieces and start a New Life... That's the kind of Lawyer and Man he is....So, Thank You!!.... Sincerely...
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06 Feb, 2025 by Magnolia lopez
Gracias a Dios porque todo salio bien y a los abogados muy buen trabajo recibimos más de lo que pensamos recomendados 100%
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06 Feb, 2025 by Tomas bailon
Se nos quemo el apartamento. Y no sabiamos que hacer. Pensabamos que no teniamos caso. Pero aqui con RILEY ERSOFF. nos ayudaron con el caso. Se los recomiendo 100% gracias RILEY ERSOFF
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07 Feb, 2025 by J-pac plummer
My wife and I, Highly recommend Riley/Ersoff LLP... Grant, Victoria and their staff, took our case and got us JUSTICE!!...Grant was on top of things from Day One,, he made sure our Bully landlord and his Defense Lawyers treated us fairly and we weren't taken advantage of...his staff scheduled and even assisted us, in getting to and from Dr's appointment's, that we couldn't have gotten to on our own...He checked in on us regularly and kept us up to date on what was needed, and what's going to happen next... Always answered our calls... Grant fought,, and he Fought Hard!!,, It was comforting, knowing that my wife and I were not alone,, Grant and staff were in our corner....He got us $ALOT OF MONEY$!!...Even after it was all done and over, Grant "Personally" checked in on us and made sure that we got a new place to live, and we were in good shape, to pick up the pieces and start a New Life... That's the kind of Lawyer and Man he is....So, Thank You!!.... Sincerely...
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06 Feb, 2025 by Magnolia lopez
Gracias a Dios porque todo salio bien y a los abogados muy buen trabajo recibimos más de lo que pensamos recomendados 100%
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06 Feb, 2025 by Tomas bailon
Se nos quemo el apartamento. Y no sabiamos que hacer. Pensabamos que no teniamos caso. Pero aqui con RILEY ERSOFF. nos ayudaron con el caso. Se los recomiendo 100% gracias RILEY ERSOFF
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02 Dec, 2022 by Delvin molden
McDonald's is McDonald's
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27 Jan, 2017 by Alan power
30 Oct, 2015 by Patricia whelan
24 Oct, 2024 by Len brothers photography
Mr. Jim Bulger was excellent. He was always very professional, helpful and knowledgeable. He kept his word on EVERYTHING. He also helped us reach a settlement. Not only did he help us reach settlement, but he made sure we got the maximum settlement possible. I have great confidence and trust in him and this law firm as a whole, as they diligently fought for me. There is no way I can possibly show all my gratitude to This firm for all they’ve done to for my mother and I. If you want people who are fair, knowledgeable, honest and professional, This firm is the right one for you!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Jen
I had a case that no one was willing to take. My own insurance company refused and failed to back me. It was a hot mess. I had extensive injuries along with a totaled car. It was a fairly desperate situation. Serber Law took on the difficult task of repping my case. When you need someone to go to bat for you and win Jonathan is your man. He worked on this case and settled it when there were no good outcomes on my end. He is extremely invested in helping his clients. In the rarity of the times, I truly felt supported, seen, and taken care of throughout the entire time we worked on this case together. Words of gratitude are but a small token of appreciation. I am so thankful to Jonathan. Serber Law is where I intend to refer friends, colleagues, and family along with any personal needs that may arise.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Christian fetterlein
Jim and the rest of this amazing staff is welcoming, supportive and efficient. They truly care about their clients needs. I highly recommend this firm.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Ernesto dominguez
I chose Haleh's Law Office to represent me after reading glowing reviews about their services, but unfortunately, my experience was far from what I expected. Initially, I was hopeful, especially after they took on my case, but as time passed, I became increasingly frustrated with the lack of communication and poor service.
For nearly two years, I received no updates, no phone calls, no emails—nothing. It felt as though my case was being completely ignored. Over the course of my case, I had at least five different case managers, each of whom seemed to forget to contact me at the correct phone number, despite me calling twice to update them with my information. On top of that, there were several scheduling issues. I was booked for appointments I had already attended, and once, they even scheduled an unnecessary appointment, waited 2 hours only for Haleh's office to tell me it had been canceled when I informed them i showed up and waited but the office never opened. This lack of communication and organization made it difficult to trust the team handling my case.
I tried reaching out to express my concerns, but my emails went unanswered. It felt like my case just wasn’t a priority for them. After five years of waiting, I finally received my settlement in the mail—but there was no follow-up from the office. No explanation, no acknowledgment, just a check in the envelope.
Overall, I was extremely dissatisfied with the service I received. I honestly feel that my case wasn’t given the attention it deserved, and had I worked with a more responsive team, I might have secured a better settlement. While the initial reviews were promising, my personal experience was far from satisfactory.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Nur alam
Haleh Shekarchian is great lawyer. She handle my case very well, I recommend to my family member
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03 Dec, 2024 by Tab tabnak
I had a very difficult and impossible case. Haleh Shekarchian and her team did a great job. I am very satisfied with the result, and recommend them to anyone who is looking for an outstanding lawfirm, that creates astonishing outcome, and resolves the case with the most compensations made for you
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20 Dec, 2024 by Ernesto dominguez
I chose Haleh's Law Office to represent me after reading glowing reviews about their services, but unfortunately, my experience was far from what I expected. Initially, I was hopeful, especially after they took on my case, but as time passed, I became increasingly frustrated with the lack of communication and poor service.
For nearly two years, I received no updates, no phone calls, no emails—nothing. It felt as though my case was being completely ignored. Over the course of my case, I had at least five different case managers, each of whom seemed to forget to contact me at the correct phone number, despite me calling twice to update them with my information. On top of that, there were several scheduling issues. I was booked for appointments I had already attended, and once, they even scheduled an unnecessary appointment, waited 2 hours only for Haleh's office to tell me it had been canceled when I informed them i showed up and waited but the office never opened. This lack of communication and organization made it difficult to trust the team handling my case.
I tried reaching out to express my concerns, but my emails went unanswered. It felt like my case just wasn’t a priority for them. After five years of waiting, I finally received my settlement in the mail—but there was no follow-up from the office. No explanation, no acknowledgment, just a check in the envelope.
Overall, I was extremely dissatisfied with the service I received. I honestly feel that my case wasn’t given the attention it deserved, and had I worked with a more responsive team, I might have secured a better settlement. While the initial reviews were promising, my personal experience was far from satisfactory.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Nur alam
Haleh Shekarchian is great lawyer. She handle my case very well, I recommend to my family member
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03 Dec, 2024 by Tab tabnak
I had a very difficult and impossible case. Haleh Shekarchian and her team did a great job. I am very satisfied with the result, and recommend them to anyone who is looking for an outstanding lawfirm, that creates astonishing outcome, and resolves the case with the most compensations made for you
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kara eilander
I highly recommend Titan law firm! Justin Bina was so helpful and reassuring throughout the whole process. Nothing but positive things to say.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Benjamin castaneda909
This is my first time calling a law group for help me out... with a car accident that I have....and I do that right decision because they do help me so I want thanks Isabel and her team for their hard work and professionality
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16 Jan, 2025 by Charles moore
Justin is compassionet And effective, attorney. good man, Ms. Darling is my favorite person at Titan she gets things done..
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17 Jan, 2025 by Shyla walker
My initial impression of Kathleen was very positive—she came across as competent, driven, and solution-oriented. I spent months organizing and sourcing all my court paperwork at her request, which was the hard part of the process. However, once I completed this, the experience went downhill quickly.
Her 'team' began giving me the runaround. I reached out over six times to get an appointment, and they canceled multiple times. Despite this, I gave grace, trusting my first impression of Kathleen. After yet another cancellation, they said I would have to wait until the new year to be seen. I requested a date for 2025, booked months in advance, but the appointment came and went without any communication from her office.
I reached out to express my disappointment over the wasted months of effort on a sensitive case not to mention the $800 consult fee, urging Kathleen to do better. Her response was dismissive—claiming her staff said I had new representation (which is false) and that she is not taking 'new' clients. There was not even an apology for the months of wasted time, lack of communication, or the sheer number of follow-ups I had to initiate.
This was a deeply disappointing experience, marked by unprofessionalism and poor taste. I cannot recommend Kathleen based on my experience.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Roger that
R S
She will email you harrasing you ,
Won't email or call other party.
So far she cost me alot of money with 0 results.
My suggestion is find a real attorney.
This one is always" busy" but she will be nice and take your money .
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06 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia frazier
Cathleen shared some sage advice with me and I truly appreciate her taking the time out of her busy schedule to do this. Very compassionate, caring attorney and SMART!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Shyla walker
My initial impression of Kathleen was very positive—she came across as competent, driven, and solution-oriented. I spent months organizing and sourcing all my court paperwork at her request, which was the hard part of the process. However, once I completed this, the experience went downhill quickly.
Her 'team' began giving me the runaround. I reached out over six times to get an appointment, and they canceled multiple times. Despite this, I gave grace, trusting my first impression of Kathleen. After yet another cancellation, they said I would have to wait until the new year to be seen. I requested a date for 2025, booked months in advance, but the appointment came and went without any communication from her office.
I reached out to express my disappointment over the wasted months of effort on a sensitive case not to mention the $800 consult fee, urging Kathleen to do better. Her response was dismissive—claiming her staff said I had new representation (which is false) and that she is not taking 'new' clients. There was not even an apology for the months of wasted time, lack of communication, or the sheer number of follow-ups I had to initiate.
This was a deeply disappointing experience, marked by unprofessionalism and poor taste. I cannot recommend Kathleen based on my experience.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Roger that
R S
She will email you harrasing you ,
Won't email or call other party.
So far she cost me alot of money with 0 results.
My suggestion is find a real attorney.
This one is always" busy" but she will be nice and take your money .
Read more
06 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia frazier
Cathleen shared some sage advice with me and I truly appreciate her taking the time out of her busy schedule to do this. Very compassionate, caring attorney and SMART!
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Roger that
R S
She will email you harrasing you ,
Won't email or call other party.
So far she cost me alot of money with 0 results.
My suggestion is find a real attorney.
This one is always" busy" but she will be nice and take your money .
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Carol brill
04 Aug, 2024 by Bridgette rote
Attorney Hossein Berenji helped me a lot in my divorce case. He guided me through the documents in detail about child custody and the divorce itself. He is an expert divorce lawyer and always thinks as a family man himself of what is the best for the child.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Roger that
R S
She will email you harrasing you ,
Won't email or call other party.
So far she cost me alot of money with 0 results.
My suggestion is find a real attorney.
This one is always" busy" but she will be nice and take your money .
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Carol brill
04 Aug, 2024 by Bridgette rote
Attorney Hossein Berenji helped me a lot in my divorce case. He guided me through the documents in detail about child custody and the divorce itself. He is an expert divorce lawyer and always thinks as a family man himself of what is the best for the child.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Delvin molden
McDonald's is McDonald's
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27 Jan, 2017 by Alan power
30 Oct, 2015 by Patricia whelan
13 Nov, 2024 by Rose k
Ernest was very rude and condescending. He talked over me throughout the entire conversation.
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16 Dec, 2023 by Thebold
Extremely helpful and straight to the point. Their thorough, knowledge and compassion left me feeling extremely empowered!
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19 Aug, 2023 by Andre richardson
Helpful but he did continually speak over me during a consultation. It was incredibly rude.
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22 May, 2023 by Zeynep koksal
She is the worst when it comes to handling anything, she misspelled our names and put wrong dates to the papers multiple times, the entire process took so long because of Angela's incompetence. She also ignores you and lost the original divorce decree and forgot to file it to the clerk for months. Total disaster
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20 Nov, 2022 by Mr. markus
11 Oct, 2018 by Xochilt naomi issa
28 Jan, 2024 by Brandon music
The best .
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16 Aug, 2021 by Jimsitter0001
“All You Need to Know About the Music Industry” is still a great resource for artists and business people.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Harrison ramsey
28 Jan, 2024 by Brandon music
The best .
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16 Aug, 2021 by Jimsitter0001
“All You Need to Know About the Music Industry” is still a great resource for artists and business people.
Read more
23 Sep, 2019 by Harrison ramsey
28 Jan, 2024 by Brandon music
The best .
Read more
16 Aug, 2021 by Jimsitter0001
“All You Need to Know About the Music Industry” is still a great resource for artists and business people.
Read more
23 Sep, 2019 by Harrison ramsey
07 Apr, 2024 by Kelly
Claims to be taking new clients yet this attorney fails to return calls or emails.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Brandon music
The best .
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16 Aug, 2021 by Jimsitter0001
“All You Need to Know About the Music Industry” is still a great resource for artists and business people.
Read more
20 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Consulted with and hired Mr Keleti to help our company in a legal dispute. He gave me the overview, what was needed and timeline. Sent paperwork to him as requested. He agreed to start and said 8-10 hours unless it moves to court. He knew the timeline was super important to respond to the court yet he failed to get back to me and hurt our business. Big mistake to trust him. Very unprofessional for a lawyer and disappointing behavior.
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12 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Martin Keletri has worked as estate attorney for both of my parents and my brother. In a difficult time, Martin was the calm voice of reason. He led me though the process and helped to avoid the pitfalls. This is a tough time and we all need comfort and sound advice.
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16 May, 2023 by La gymnastics staff
09 Nov, 2022 by Michael
CAUTION! Michelle Cohen- Huggies is NOT to be trusted. It is only a matter of time before the claims of her unethical tactics become proven and she is disbarred. I too, have experienced her attempt to win by default and lie that I was properly served for an unlawful detainer. filed for a motion to quash (must be within 5 days from when served) and was dismissed. If you are her opposing council, do not under estimate her willingness to lie, cheat or steal!
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16 Jun, 2022 by Lisa vaughn
Rebecca should be disbarred! I’ve been in probate court for over a year I have a percentage of ownership in a piece of property, She got me illegally evicted! She is a horrible human being!👎🏽
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16 May, 2023 by La gymnastics staff
09 Nov, 2022 by Michael
CAUTION! Michelle Cohen- Huggies is NOT to be trusted. It is only a matter of time before the claims of her unethical tactics become proven and she is disbarred. I too, have experienced her attempt to win by default and lie that I was properly served for an unlawful detainer. filed for a motion to quash (must be within 5 days from when served) and was dismissed. If you are her opposing council, do not under estimate her willingness to lie, cheat or steal!
Read more
16 Jun, 2022 by Lisa vaughn
Rebecca should be disbarred! I’ve been in probate court for over a year I have a percentage of ownership in a piece of property, She got me illegally evicted! She is a horrible human being!👎🏽
Read more
16 May, 2023 by La gymnastics staff
09 Nov, 2022 by Michael
CAUTION! Michelle Cohen- Huggies is NOT to be trusted. It is only a matter of time before the claims of her unethical tactics become proven and she is disbarred. I too, have experienced her attempt to win by default and lie that I was properly served for an unlawful detainer. filed for a motion to quash (must be within 5 days from when served) and was dismissed. If you are her opposing council, do not under estimate her willingness to lie, cheat or steal!
Read more
16 Jun, 2022 by Lisa vaughn
Rebecca should be disbarred! I’ve been in probate court for over a year I have a percentage of ownership in a piece of property, She got me illegally evicted! She is a horrible human being!👎🏽
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
