>251
experienced lawyers
Filter by
30 Aug, 2024 by Thomas davis
As a first time offender I can greatly say that Mr.Pink made the process and outcome as easy as it can be. I didn’t feel worried knowing he’ll take care of me as long as I advised by his word . Outstanding work.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Cardonna black
Mr. Augustin Pink was like the North Star for me, guiding me with sound advice throughout the entire legal process. His knowledge and advice were beneficial in helping me understand the necessary steps to take. He was always prompt in responding to my questions and provided clear, effective answers. He was straightforward and direct about the situation we were encountering. With his leadership, I never felt lost and I am extremely grateful that I was referred to Mr. Pink for legal counsel.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Brianna torres
Mr.Pink was very attentive and great to work with. He got my case dismissed as promissed and fast ! I would recommend him to anyone needing a great lawyer
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Will price
I was referred to Buckley Patterson after my car accident by our insurance adjuster. I was hesitant at first about getting an attorney because of my tendency to "lean away" from confrontation. John was very warm and able to empathize with me while at the same time helping me feel safe to look at the bigger picture. John is very relatable, has outstanding knowledgeable about procedure, and most notably, he checked in with me regularly about the case and made sure I was prepared before each proceeding. He maintains a strong personal work ethic.
I would feel great recommending them to all my friends and family in the future.
Read more
20 Mar, 2024 by Mike ruiz
I was referred to Buckley Patterson by someone that works with them while at my barber. I decided to give them a try after I couldn't get a hold of the insurance company myself... best decision I could have ever made. John and Phillip made this process so smooth and easy for me. They explained the whole process every step of the way and were constantly in contact. I never had to deal with anyone else just directly with them. If you are looking for an injury attorney I highly recommend them. Just jump on a call with John and once you see how well he explains everything you'll feel as comfortable as I did having them represent you.
Read more
25 Jan, 2024 by Sam ramos
Having chosen Buckley Patterson to represent my case has to had been one of the best decisions I could’ve made. Very professional, very informative and very patient with all of my questions I’ve had throughout. For someone new to this experience, like myself, Buckley Patterson are the Go To’s as they explain every detail, know every step on what’s to come and for the peace-of-mind knowing I could trust them to take care of everything! Highly highly recommend to friends and family and to everyone else for the best experience!
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Will price
I was referred to Buckley Patterson after my car accident by our insurance adjuster. I was hesitant at first about getting an attorney because of my tendency to "lean away" from confrontation. John was very warm and able to empathize with me while at the same time helping me feel safe to look at the bigger picture. John is very relatable, has outstanding knowledgeable about procedure, and most notably, he checked in with me regularly about the case and made sure I was prepared before each proceeding. He maintains a strong personal work ethic.
I would feel great recommending them to all my friends and family in the future.
Read more
20 Mar, 2024 by Mike ruiz
I was referred to Buckley Patterson by someone that works with them while at my barber. I decided to give them a try after I couldn't get a hold of the insurance company myself... best decision I could have ever made. John and Phillip made this process so smooth and easy for me. They explained the whole process every step of the way and were constantly in contact. I never had to deal with anyone else just directly with them. If you are looking for an injury attorney I highly recommend them. Just jump on a call with John and once you see how well he explains everything you'll feel as comfortable as I did having them represent you.
Read more
25 Jan, 2024 by Sam ramos
Having chosen Buckley Patterson to represent my case has to had been one of the best decisions I could’ve made. Very professional, very informative and very patient with all of my questions I’ve had throughout. For someone new to this experience, like myself, Buckley Patterson are the Go To’s as they explain every detail, know every step on what’s to come and for the peace-of-mind knowing I could trust them to take care of everything! Highly highly recommend to friends and family and to everyone else for the best experience!
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Ashley mckibbin
Serena Hudson made what could have been a very stressful process as simple and clear as she possibly could. She took the time to make sure we understood all of our options fully and was available for questions/chats when needed. We were more than satisfied with the outcome of our proceedings and will be forever grateful!
Read more
03 Oct, 2023 by Wesley verret
Serena Hudson is bar none the best and the brightest. This is one of many reasons why I have gone back to her multiple times for council, strategic approach and case handling regardless of which law firm she resides. Serena always goes above and beyond to map out the best solution forward, relentlessly pursuing what is best for me and not just looking to get paid. Often times these situations are difficult to navigate, and they have been. With Serena's knowledge, experience and grit I am beyond thrilled at the outcome of my cases. All my questions are answered and concerns are alleviated. Her creativity and knowledge allowed for me to see and achieve outcomes that I was not even aware were possible. I would recommend Serena to anyone who is looking to get clarity and be in the best position for success. Take this from me, if you are looking for light in the darkness you want Serena in your corner.
Read more
02 Sep, 2023 by Alonzo myers
This firm is a powerhouse! The talent here doesn't only include the attorney's, but also the paralegals, legal assistants, and even the office staff. This is an eclectic group of well experienced professionals that will know how to represent you at trial, if your case goes that far. There isn't an angle they won't think about to get you the results you are looking for.
I had the pleasure of being represented by Walter Schouten. Ironically, he was referred to me by an attorney that I consulted with. I was told to call Walter because he is very knowledgeable and he's an outstanding trial lawyer. Walter took on my case and he was assisted by an amazing paralegal in Vanessa Enciso. This dynamic duo believed that they could help my situation in securing me a new trial for a custody case. They went to work immediately. This was 2 weeks after I lost at trial while being represented by a different firm.
Long story long...Walter was able to get me a new trial, and he was able to get the judge to change her previous ruling. I am now the custodial parent of my 7 year old son.
I have to admit that even if I wasn't awarded custodial rights, I was more than satisfied with the representation and would have been able to live with the ruling a lot easier. Knowing that I was being properly represented was huge for me. Especially since the previous firm I hired for this case was absolutely terrible.
Thank you Walter, Vanessa, and Team Toombs Imel for everything. Y'all have raised the bar to the clouds for other firms. Thank you for the open communication, trustworthiness, and good vibes.
Read more
17 Nov, 2021 by Matthew
Justen really helped me out during a stressful and complicated business breakup. He helped me understand everything during the lawsuit and guided me to a successful settlement.
Since then he’s also helped me draw up several documents for my new contracting business.
Read more
09 Nov, 2021 by Heather
Justen was referred to me to help with an opportunity I felt was too far outside my experience and expertise to handle without representation. Justen did a fantastic job of hand-holding yet empowering me simultaneously. He was always available to hear my thoughts and help me narrow down the path I wanted to take. Justen is very knowledgeable and professional and I learned so much through working with him and I am better off than before. I have only good things to say about him and would highly recommend him to anyone,
Read more
10 Mar, 2020 by House tacos
I had the privilege and joy of sitting down with Justen Barks and Rodney Beard. Although it was our first consultation, they made me feel like I was their most valued client. This is the only commercial law firm I will be using and highly recommend them to anyone and everyone.
Read more
19 Nov, 2023 by Monica zabaloy
Best place to work.
Read more
18 Oct, 2023 by Bill helfand
26 Dec, 2020 by Janetta gotcher
16 Sep, 2010 by Alex
Griffin Vance represented a company I worked for. I can highly recommend Griffin. He is extraordinarily bright, thorough, but most importantly he is honest and trustworthy. He returned calls and was very respectful of our time. The advice he gave was always accurate and in my client's best interests. I have referred Griffin to family and friends.
Read more
27 Aug, 2010 by Georgia
I was laid off from my last employer in 2009. When I received a letter from the TWC that said that my employer was contesting the claim I submitted, I felt I had been hit very hard in the chest. I was given Griffin's name from a relative and from the first phone call I made to him I felt I had someone who understood me and made me feel that I was in the right. I cannot tell you how relieved I felt having him on my side. Through 3 rounds of contesting my claims, I was finally awarded my unemployment claim. Without Griffin's support, I don't think my outcome would have been successful. I truly believe he is a hero.
Read more
20 Aug, 2010 by Roger
I had a business that I needed some help with copy right infringement. I contacted Mr. Vance and we set up a meeting. When I met with Mr. Vance he was very cordial. He listened to what I had to say and what information I could provide. He then made suggestions as to what avenue to take to remedy the situation and provided approximately what it would cost. At no time did I feel that Mr. Vance allowed my situation to be put aside and not addressed. The situation was resolved and the cost was more that fair. I highly recommend Mr.Vance and if necessary will use him again in the future.
Read more
29 May, 2022 by Justin
Where to begin? Simply put, the project that Mrs. Davis undertook with us would’ve have probably taken 4 different lawyers. Each specializing in one area, she has taken the dream/idea that we had and helped us make it a reality! The little things that you overlook as someone trying to open a business, (and believe me, there are many! Despite how much you think you know.) she has addressed, and helped us tackle. We will definitely continue to retain her services for this, as well as future endeavors. Thank you, Mrs Davis!!
Read more
27 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I would like to say that I am very pleased with The S Davis Law Group with helping reconstruct my Bailbonds business "Nonstop Bail bonds". Shakeatha Davis and her staff helped reorganize, staff, put policies in place, and even helped with collections as an added on service. Ms. Davis would attend my company meetings and stay for a longer period of time (at no extra cost) at my office to make sure her firm completed the task for that day. I would highly recommend any business to hire The S Davis Law Group (big or small) to help reconstruct their business they are very affordable and reliable with a good follow up. Thank you again Ms. Davis and Staff!
Read more
16 Jan, 2019 by Wendy
Attorney Shakeata Davis, is very professional and kept me informed about my case. I nicked named her "Lioness" in the courtroom. Attorney Davis, was very proficient in everything she pertaining to my case. I highly recommend her services.
Read more
11 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
First time dealing directly with an attorney. Case involved corporate litigation. Craig handled my case efficiently and productively. I would recommend him without hesitation. Provided insightful guidance and was always professional.
Read more
22 Mar, 2016 by Yesenia
Craig provides a quality service within our construction industry. He has been a great asset and is such a pleasure to work with. He would definitely be a great addition to any construction company's legal team.
Read more
27 Sep, 2014 by Jeanne
Craig set up and handles all of our Corp. Administration bylaws and everything that goes with it. He is available any time we need him for a question and answers ASAP. Only Lawyer I have ever seen do this!
Read more
13 Dec, 2017 by Jacki
I was in need of an attorney to review a document and to give me a professional interpretation of it. I found Attorney Davis by searching the internet. After viewing her credentials, I felt she was the one. Sure enough, Attorney Davis was very professional. Her years of experience was evident in her skills to listen to what I needed, review and access the document then give a clear precise legal interpretation of how it applies to me. With that information, I was able to springboard forward with confidence. Attorney Davis is very timely and thorough with her work. I found her to be genuine. It was a pleasure to do business with her. Thanks for your service.
Read more
06 Oct, 2017 by Marissa
I went to see Patricia Davis for advice on starting my own business. She was referred to me by a trusted friend. Not only is Patricia's advice sound and her fees reasonable, but it is enjoyable visiting with her. She patiently explained my options to me and answered my questions fully.
Read more
01 Sep, 2016 by Tayo
Ms Davis is a very professional and experienced attorney. She took her time to listen and understand the objective of my business, and provided me with excellent and insightful legal advice. She also helped prepare all necessary documents needed to help put my business on the path of success. She is simply the best.
Read more
03 Dec, 2020 by Terence
I searched around for an attorney who was affordable, but who also could assist me with a complex divorce. Not only did Ms. Mickey and her staff show professionalism, but also encouraged me during a difficult time in my life. After back and forth negotiating, and not backing down, Ms. Mickey was able to settle my divorce with terms that I agreed upon. She never threw in the towel when I was ready to give up. I would recommend Ms. Mickey’s firm and services to anyone. She will be the first attorney I will call if I am ever in a situation again.
Read more
12 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Kamisha Mickey was very thorough and diligent in taking care of my situation. She never backed down and always demanded accountability, always very reasonable and was ALWAYS my advocate!
Read more
02 Mar, 2016 by Rico
I was in custody a battle with my ex... he was trying to take my daughter from me and tryin to make me pay childsupport.. but i had kamisha by my side... the whole process took 1 yr but finally we finished and my babygirl is here to stay wit me...
Read more
08 Oct, 2022 by Ray burchette
07 May, 2018 by H d
18 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Daniels worked to have my case dismissed (as quickly as allowed by Harris county).
Read more
11 Nov, 2015 by Ashley
I have used Richard Daniels on several different cases over the years. Richard Daniels has always gone above and beyond and exceeded my expectations! All cases resulted in my favor.
Read more
30 Sep, 2014 by Gary
This was the first IP lawsuit our company and its executives had ever been involved with. Bill worked with us, kept us focused on the important issues and always suggested alternative paths to take. On the billing side, Bill was very respectful of the situation we were in and worked with us. Bill believes in our case and we will win.
Read more
19 Aug, 2014 by Virginia
Bill was honest, thorough, efficient, and persistent. The firm fought hard for my case. The staff was respectful, kind and helpful at all times. Excellent law firm.
Read more
02 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
I got lucky, Attorney Wadhawan helped with a previous case which he had dismissed for me. Later when I had Entertainment Contracts I needed reviewed, I was able to go back to him for that as well. In either case, he handled both my cases perfectly. He definitely knows his Entertainment Law, and he ain't no punk when it comes to standin up for his clients.
Read more
04 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Tony Wadhawan was extremely professional, yet was personal enough to take away the stress I had. I definitely recommend him and will definitely return if I ever need legal help, HOPEFULLY I WON'T NEED HIM AGAIN!
Read more
26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Shanna's been my lawyer since 2011 -- she's an amazing consultant and lawyer. She effectively communicates what is happening now and what will happen later. Her prices are very reasonable.
Read more
14 Jun, 2022 by Amir
I have used Carly for several years. I am very pleased with her work and would recommend her to anyone looking for an experienced lawyer.
Read more
15 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Craft filed a trademark application for me in 2007. He charged a reasonable price and also field a response to the trademark offices rejection...overall an excellent lawyer!
Read more
14 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I consulted with Marrick on legal matters relating to my current employer. He was very supportive, knowledgeable, down to earth, and gave valuable real world insight on my specific case. He is a genuine attorney I would recommend to friends and family.
Read more
04 Apr, 2011 by Anna
Mr. Ravi spend almost 2 hours with me at his office, then he told me he will not just recommend bankruptcy because he needs more info. More follow-ups, gave him more info, then he worked my numbers, then he told me bankruptcy was not best for me, but then he talk to my bank helped me save my house. Then he said no charge for helping. He wants to help people. Nicest lawyer. Anna
Read more
29 Jun, 2016 by Joseph-michael
As the head producer here at 99 Years Studios Entertainment, I hired Casey to work with us as our full time Entertainment Attorney. She has done an absolutely phenomenal job. Casey is a hard worker and because of her very fine skill, we will be growing with her for many years to come. I would highly recommend Casey to anyone seeking legal council. Not only is she trained in Entertainment Law, but she has the know how and skill to excel in any type of situation. -Joseph-M.C
Read more
17 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
We hired Mr. Mcferren at the last minute before a jury trial. It was a lengthy trial that resulted in the termination of parental rights for 1 mother and 2 fathers. All were unfit parents. The babies are brothers and only 1 and 2 years of age. Mr. Mcferren read every document that was presented to him quickly and accurately. He then defended these babies with the strongest arm of the law. Justice was definitely done in this case. I have never known of another attorney with such heart felt compassion and deep concerns for their cases. He also helped us financially. To my own surprise I was actually charged less than the normal fee. He knew we were having a hard time financially and has gone beyond any expectations to not cause more of a hardship on my family. I highly recomment Mr. Eric Meferren as an attorney to accomplish any goal he sets out to make, and to win any case he accepts. I will not hesitate to use him in the future for anything necessary.
Read more
29 Dec, 2011 by Shirley
did an excellect job on my personal civil case and on a breach of contract case for my business
Read more
22 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
She is such a down to earth person. She makes everything plain and clear. Straight forward and no nonsense. I recommend her to everyone I know. I wish I would have known about her sooner. I would saved myself a lot of stress and headache.
Read more
15 Mar, 2017 by Dave
You need attorney, please do not search any more!
Mr. Jammy is excellent, very knowledgeable and friendly. I had find him, excellent in his work. He knows how to protect his client's benefit. His expertise in business, consumer protection, debt collection is excellent. Before hiring any attorney, please consult Mr. Jammy, you will not be disappointed. Thanks for reading.
Read more
19 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
My experience with Ms. Jamison was excellent. She is number one a pro... and second just a real pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend her for any entertainment legal work. Particularly contract work.
Read more
13 Nov, 2017 by Glenn
Ethan faced four law firms is pursuit of our case, including one very large firm. Despite the resources on the other side, Ethan was very successful in our case. I highly recommend him.
Read more
11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Purav drafted and negotiated a joint collaboration agreement for us and demonstrated high awareness of intellectual property issues and knowledge of oilfield technology
Read more
06 Nov, 2014 by David
He helped me with a number of issues related to music licensing through both digital means and synch placements. Friendly, helpful, and responsive. Got the results I was looking for.
Read more
20 Jul, 2023 by Christine molinowski
This was our first time to log in and we had a small issue. Maria was very professional and expedited the process, waited patiently for us to complete the log in and the assisted us with some general coverage questions. Maria is a fabulous member or your team!!!
Read more
20 Jul, 2023 by Lavar hunter
Khadijah McNeil
Member Specialist Department
Legal Access Legal EASE
She was the best, she knew exactly what to do.
Read more
19 Jul, 2023 by Zerong y
Angelina Barrientos is the agent taking my call. She is very professional and patient with questions and thorough with answers. Top notch service with LegalEase!
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.
