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Bertram Paul Husband, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 148 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
47,94
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
4.7
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
145 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2025 by Julissa ramos
Best car accident lawyer
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06 Feb, 2025 by Cesar blanco
I was in a car accident several months ago and I was recommended Avaness Law by a good friend. I spoke with Aren Avaness and be quickly got to work. He reviewed my accident, he was able to begin the process helping get my car repaired and get me back to 100% health. His quality of work and the partnerships he has made my life go from chaos to smooth sailing. Aren and his team guided me through every step of the process. I was very impressed at the final outcome of this case. I hope I don’t get into an accident again but if I do I will be reaching out to Avaness Law. Thank you again Aren I appreciate everything you did for me.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Ang 79
We are appreciated to Avaness Law Firm for their incredible support and dedication throughout our car accident case. They were always available to answer my questions, kept me informed every step of the way, and fought hard to secure a fair settlement. I highly recommend them to anyone facing a similar situation. :)
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Charles C. Rainey, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 45 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,71
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
33 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Angelo r casillo (mr.big)
I contemplated filing for bankruptcy for several months. I did my research and read many testimonials from various law firms including those pf Mark’s former clients. I had a good feeling about Mark and made the decision to schedule my appointment for the free 30 minute consulation. By there end of the consultation, I knew I had made the right choice and felt I was in very good hands. His communication was always clear and easy to understand. I provided Mark with all the requested documentation and completed the required forms. In turn, Mark was able to present my case in the best possible light and we received a successful Discharge of Debtor within six months from the date I retained his services. Mark is truly a master of his craft. Angelo CasilloI
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22 Aug, 2024 by Vi sergie
Mr Mark is one of the most knowledgeable, kind and honest attorneys. He makes the entire process less stressful, always supportive and responsive. Very patient and makes sure you understand everything every step of the way. 100% recommend !
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06 Feb, 2024 by Kim faulhaber
Mark was so helpful & supportive during my bankruptcy filing. He answered every question I had (no matter how dumb) quickly & thoroughly, and was available whenever I needed him. He & his firm provide every detail you would need during what is for most of us a scary & uncertain time. They provide endless resources, and made the entire process easy & smooth.
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Charles Michael Coate, experienced Entertainment, Intellectual Property attorney in Burbank, CA with 98 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,13
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
97 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Lennart leedu
Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2024 by Hakobh harutyunyan
Expert in what he does, blessed to have found him.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Angelo r casillo (mr.big)
I contemplated filing for bankruptcy for several months. I did my research and read many testimonials from various law firms including those pf Mark’s former clients. I had a good feeling about Mark and made the decision to schedule my appointment for the free 30 minute consulation. By there end of the consultation, I knew I had made the right choice and felt I was in very good hands. His communication was always clear and easy to understand. I provided Mark with all the requested documentation and completed the required forms. In turn, Mark was able to present my case in the best possible light and we received a successful Discharge of Debtor within six months from the date I retained his services. Mark is truly a master of his craft. Angelo CasilloI
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Ernest Goodman, experienced Civil Rights, Copyright Application attorney in Burbank, CA with 10 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,31
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by Natalia b
I want to thank Ernest Goodman for the work done, I could not get a green card for a long time. Before Ernest, I had another lawyer who could not help me and I decided to apply for mondamus and turned to Ernest, among all the lawyers, he was the only one who told me everything correctly and explainedit, I did not think for a long time and turned to him and did not wish anything, in less than a month my son and I were approved for a green card, I am incredibly happy, this is the best lawyer, a professional in his field, I recommend him with all my heart, I wish everyone good luck
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10 Feb, 2024 by Baktygul
Ernest is a very high professional in his field. I had a tough immigration case, other lawyers could not help me, but he promised to help me during the initial consultation, and then he did so, everything was as it should be. Attentive to detail and completed everything within the promised time frame.
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21 Sep, 2023 by Iryna
I received a very extensive answer to my question, it was not a consultation, but help on one of the communications on a social network, but legal advice from lawyer Ernest Goodman helped me understand my situation. I recommend!
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Lindsey Wagner, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 3 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Jan, 2018 by Renea
It is with much enthusiasm that I am writing to recommend the services of Scott & Wagner and Associates. I used them for a work related concern, and was completely satisfied with their quick response, professionalism and assistance to help settle the matter. Ms. Wagner was friendly and her clear communication was excellent and easy to understand. I'm happy to recommend the services of Scott & Wagner.
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06 Feb, 2014 by Matthew
Ms. Wagner represented use in mediation and did an amazing job. She prepared use for what to expect in the mediation, and how to react or not react during the process. Ms. Wagner's efforts on our behalf resulted in a fair and reasonable settlement that exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend Ms. Wagner. She kept us informed and comforted throughout the process.
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24 Jan, 2014 by Kathleen
Ms. Wagner listened intently to our needs and concerns. She made her presence known through her speaking and her knowledge of the employment law arena. She explained what needed to be explained and answered all our questions throughly. We wish Ms. Wagner continued success in her field and future endeavors.
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Johanna R. Alves-Parks, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2023 by Brian beeson
Google Maps
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Joseph Michael Sofio, experienced Business, Copyright Application attorney in Burbank, CA with 33 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,33
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
33 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Angelo r casillo (mr.big)
I contemplated filing for bankruptcy for several months. I did my research and read many testimonials from various law firms including those pf Mark’s former clients. I had a good feeling about Mark and made the decision to schedule my appointment for the free 30 minute consulation. By there end of the consultation, I knew I had made the right choice and felt I was in very good hands. His communication was always clear and easy to understand. I provided Mark with all the requested documentation and completed the required forms. In turn, Mark was able to present my case in the best possible light and we received a successful Discharge of Debtor within six months from the date I retained his services. Mark is truly a master of his craft. Angelo CasilloI
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star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Vi sergie
Mr Mark is one of the most knowledgeable, kind and honest attorneys. He makes the entire process less stressful, always supportive and responsive. Very patient and makes sure you understand everything every step of the way. 100% recommend !
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star star star star star
06 Feb, 2024 by Kim faulhaber
Mark was so helpful & supportive during my bankruptcy filing. He answered every question I had (no matter how dumb) quickly & thoroughly, and was available whenever I needed him. He & his firm provide every detail you would need during what is for most of us a scary & uncertain time. They provide endless resources, and made the entire process easy & smooth.
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Jordan Harris Lichtman, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 17 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,32
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
17 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Debra ryan
Great experience. Great team of people who made my experience exceptional. Very pleased and grateful.
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star star star star star
30 Jul, 2024 by Mark seliga
I have to say that the team at AGMB are exceptional. They work tirelessly and I never feel I cannot reach out at anytime with anything. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to learn from them as I started a business.
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star star star star star
22 Oct, 2022 by Richard saperstein
I’ve worked with other law firms and business management firms and was amazed and relieved to find this level of talent on both sides at one firm. They are impeccable professionals; savvy, thoughtful, strategic. I feel lucky to have found them and plan to work with them for years to come.
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Joshua Michael Webster, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 17 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,32
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
17 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Debra ryan
Great experience. Great team of people who made my experience exceptional. Very pleased and grateful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2024 by Mark seliga
I have to say that the team at AGMB are exceptional. They work tirelessly and I never feel I cannot reach out at anytime with anything. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to learn from them as I started a business.
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star star star star star
22 Oct, 2022 by Richard saperstein
I’ve worked with other law firms and business management firms and was amazed and relieved to find this level of talent on both sides at one firm. They are impeccable professionals; savvy, thoughtful, strategic. I feel lucky to have found them and plan to work with them for years to come.
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Jeff Scott Rotondi, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 17 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,32
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
17 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Debra ryan
Great experience. Great team of people who made my experience exceptional. Very pleased and grateful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2024 by Mark seliga
I have to say that the team at AGMB are exceptional. They work tirelessly and I never feel I cannot reach out at anytime with anything. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to learn from them as I started a business.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2022 by Richard saperstein
I’ve worked with other law firms and business management firms and was amazed and relieved to find this level of talent on both sides at one firm. They are impeccable professionals; savvy, thoughtful, strategic. I feel lucky to have found them and plan to work with them for years to come.
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Martin John Barab, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 97 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,10
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
97 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Lennart leedu
Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2024 by Hakobh harutyunyan
Expert in what he does, blessed to have found him.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Angelo r casillo (mr.big)
I contemplated filing for bankruptcy for several months. I did my research and read many testimonials from various law firms including those pf Mark’s former clients. I had a good feeling about Mark and made the decision to schedule my appointment for the free 30 minute consulation. By there end of the consultation, I knew I had made the right choice and felt I was in very good hands. His communication was always clear and easy to understand. I provided Mark with all the requested documentation and completed the required forms. In turn, Mark was able to present my case in the best possible light and we received a successful Discharge of Debtor within six months from the date I retained his services. Mark is truly a master of his craft. Angelo CasilloI
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Ilana Makovoz, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 290 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,88
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
290 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2025 by Frank g
I can't say enough great things about Morris Chichyan and his team! He went above and beyond to handle my case with professionalism, efficiency, and care. From start to finish, he kept me informed and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Thanks to his dedication, my settlement was finalized quickly and with a fantastic outcome. I highly recommend Morris Chichyan to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Julian galvan
I been with them for 2 years and I got to say they are a lot of help for everything you need great work they do and for sure I will come back to them
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18 Feb, 2025 by John bercasio
Frank did great explaining the process! Really easy to work with and straight forward, process was quick and smooth!
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Richard Charles Rey II, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mccarthy
Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Justin
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2020 by Elvis sahakian
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Jason Insalaco, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Michael David Kuznetsky, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mark Lawrence Kovinsky, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Ethan Agard Glickstein, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Nikolas Abraham Primack, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mansi Krish Shah, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joshua Alan Shapiro, experienced Entertainment, Intellectual Property attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Brian Meredith Yates, experienced Entertainment, Litigation attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Steven Raymond Cerveris, experienced Entertainment, Mediation attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert David Cooper, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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David Anthony Garcia, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Anthony Louis Pessino, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Milinda Leigh McNeely, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Raymond George Gonzalez, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Jon Thomas Kolbeck, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Nicole Keller Nagel, experienced Business, Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Marci Ann Koch, experienced Entertainment attorney in Burbank, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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