Lawyers map
>162
experienced lawyers
Filter by
14 Oct, 2024 by Jacquavia thomas
The woman who answered the phone immediately asked if my tickets were criminal. I advised I wasn’t aware of that information. She did advise me to go on the Clerk Of Courts or go down there and find out if the information is criminal. She told me if anything, that I could go online and just look up the information then call them back. I asked if I could provide her with my license number just as I did with the previous attorneys to gain assistance. Her reply was “no”.
I am confused. Are you all not here to assist? It’s ok. I’ll take my business elsewhere. Thank you.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly navas
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your outstanding legal representation as my husband's attorney. It was a true honor to have had you by our side throughout the legal proceedings.
Your expertise and dedication truly set you apart as the best attorney in South Florida. Every interaction with you reassured us that we were in capable hands. The decision to retain your services was undoubtedly one of the best we have made, as every dime paid was undeniably worth it.
Thanks to your hard work and commitment, my husband emerged from his felony charges unscathed and with a clean slate. Your skillful navigation of the legal system was nothing short of remarkable, and we cannot thank you enough for the positive outcome.
Once again, thank you, Michael Mirer, for your exceptional legal acumen and unwavering support. We are incredibly grateful to have had you as our attorney and will not hesitate to recommend your services to anyone in need of legal representation.
Warm regards,
KIMBERLY N
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Deborah burns
I cannot say enough at how professional Michael Mirer and his staff were to me. He assured me everything would be ok and in the end he was 100% right. I am so thankful for his experience and awesome customer service. I will forever be grateful!
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Bianca shillingford
Immigration attorneys are a dime a dozen but if you’re looking for quality work, an attorney who is patient, understanding and most importantly knowledgeable then you should give Jude Law a call. You’ll meet an immigration attorney who genuinely cares AND does amazing work. Attorney Jude and her team goes above and beyond and gets the job done. The immigration process can be confusing but she ensures that you are aware of and understand all of your options in order for you to make an informed decision.
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Mert sayın
Jude is an excellent lawyer. They were very attentive throughout my Green Card process. They expedited my case, and what was supposed to take 4 years was completed in 1.5 years, and my Green Card was approved. I highly recommend them. They will fight for you to win. I am very grateful to them and their team, and I am very happy to have worked with them.
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Alaqua gordon
I’m really grateful and happy that I could put my trust in Jude law, to help me get my cases approved, I’m so happy and I loved working with them, they made me feel comfortable, so easy going, they listened and we communicated together all the time, while working with them I didn’t feel like I was left alone, not once, they were helping me every step of the way, I appreciate that and I loved working with them, thanks for helping me getting my case approved. 10/10 recommendation.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Rosanne desirée manchoy
I hired John May recently. We went to trial and won! He was very professional and efficient and very responsive in handling the case. He treated me like family as well and was very brilliant in court! Thank u so much John!
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Allison s
07 Mar, 2024 by Carolaing gabaldon
Mis más sincero agradecimiento a The Lions Den Attorneys at Law, con su asesoría, luego de dos meses de reuniones y juntar documentos, pude obtener la aprobación de la visa Eb2. Gracias a Jonathan May y su equipo, son un ejemplo de conocimiento de las leyes y asesoría de excelencia… Muchas gracias a todos.
1000% recomendados. Además, que al mejor precio.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Luis suarez
Mi abogado y todo el equipo que manejó mi caso en el bufete de abogados de Smith & Eulo fueron más que excepcionales. La abogada que me asignaron y sus asistentes legales fueron muy profesionales, conocedores e informativos durante todo este proceso. Estoy muy agradecido de tener a este equipo de mi lado! Definitivamente recomendaré el bufete de abogados a todos mis amigos y familiares
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela lopez
Me remitieron al bufete de Smith & Eulo y, vaya, qué alegría. Todo el despacho, desde la secretaria en adelante, fue increíble. Felicitaciones a mi maravilloso abogado, quien organizó todo y lo hizo fácil. Siempre me llamaba con actualizaciones. Este proceso, que pensé que iba a ser una pesadilla, resultó todo lo contrario, gracias por todo. Desearía poder darles a todos 10 estrellas y más. Ha sido un placer trabajar con todos ustedes
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Maria salome rodríguez fajardo
Son geniales estos abogados de la firma Smith & Eulo, me acompañaron en todo mi proceso legal, formamos un equipo con mi defensa, nunca me dejaron sola, y me mantuvieron muy informada, eso se valora, gracias a esa defensa, hoy tengo una oportunidad de reiniciar mi vida, Si pudiera dar más estrellas lo haría pero si recomendarlos al 100%.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Mambs coulibaly
I was very impressed with her professionalism, swift responses, and attention to details. She was proactive and always communicated the next steps. Contact safie immediately don’t waste time she is the best I’m very pleased of being a green card holder with the help of her expertise
Read more
24 Mar, 2024 by Mark hagerty
Could not be happier. Resolved my legal issue that had been outstanding for over 18 months. Fair, responsive and got the job done. Price that was quoted was charged to complete the entire agreement. If you have a legal issue trust this firm to get it resolved. Thank you Transnational Matters!!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Mel b
After our previous Lawyer made several errors with our case, Safie stepped in and not only identified the issues but helped with getting them resolved.
Safie is knowledgeable and professional.
Our only regret is not working with Safie earlier.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Pam
Attorney Shulevitz handled my triple traffic ticket case. Sara was personable and warm, and due to her professional excellence, she was able to get all 3 tickets thrown out on a technical issue! I was completely satisfied and I highly recommend her services.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Ismael
Sara is absolutly coming from another world , I was facing 2 felonies that I have never committed and she get them dismissed in a month , I can’t describe my joy at this moment . Sara is the besr and by far .
Read more
27 Mar, 2024 by Karen
I highly recommend Sara. Extremely professional and personable. She took great care in examining and researching my case. Super results. Thank-you!
Read more
16 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I regularly work with Tom Manos and find him to be trustworthy, responsive, knowledgeable and working on the highest professional standards as a litigation and entertainment lawyer. I highly recommend him.
Read more
26 Apr, 2011 by Margie w.
I hired Mr. Manos to assist me in a contract issue I had with a company. I had a lot at stake - stood in a really bad position. Mr. Manos always kept me focus and realistic. I put all of my trust in him. After many years of litigation, he obtained a very good judgment in my favor. I very much appreciate all of his hard work, dedication, and patience with my case. I am forever thankful!
Read more
28 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Tom to anyone who wants a lawyer. He is a great lawyer, and a man of integrity (and I can't say that about too many lawyers!). He's been in the business for years and is very knowledgeable, thorough and efficient. What I like the most about him is that he is old school, he puts the client first not his own pocketbook. He is definitely a rare jewel!!
Read more
01 Aug, 2023 by Michael
I can't say enough about the professionalism of Attorney Richard Wolfe, his staff and everyone that works in his office. His reputation far exceeded my expectations. Richard always gave me his time, even when showing up unannounced, lol. He has all the right connections in the entertainment industry. Even know he is a top rated lawyer, he always treated me fairly. GREAT GUY, GREAT ATTORNEY
Read more
20 Jul, 2018 by Jennifer
I hired Richard to defend me in a non compete lawsuit. He negotiated my case so well! I never want to be in a lawsuit again but if I had to, I'd pick Richard as my attorney. I highly recommend him!
Read more
10 Jul, 2018 by John
I needed legal assistance and contacted Richard as he is a well-known lawyer in the entertainment industry. From the very first moment Richard and his team at Wolfe Law Miami took care of my case with an excellent level of professionalism. They did investigate and prepare my case thoroughly. Furthermore, they were always available to answer my concerns. The case was taken care with a deep level of knowledge, ethics and care. I will always recommend Richard and his team.
Read more
16 Jun, 2020 by Leslie
Allen has represented us for almost 25 years ranging from agreements in music publishing, artist management, production, and copyright infringement disputes. Each and every time we have worked together whether it is a label negotiation or an independent he always manages to make deals come to fruition, probably because he always does the right thing. Besides knowing all the player's in the industry he has such a deep knowledge of music it doesn't matter what genre he loves music! Allen, thank you for being there throughout the years. Besides being such a consummate professional you are an amazing person. I can't imagine having navigated the industry without you.
Read more
21 May, 2018 by Daniel
I've known Allen Jacobi for many years and I'm pleased to share that throughout all these years Mr Jacobi has represented me and in many occasions I have produced video and film content for his enterprises and clients. I most certainly recommend him and as a matter of fact I have done so to friends and business associates. He has never disappoint me nor any of the individuals I've reffered to him. Great lawyer, great friend.
Read more
13 Oct, 2015 by Ad
Allen Jacobl has been my attorney for the past 10 years. He's drafted several contracts for me from management to consulting agreements. He's introduced me to various clients that need services with radio promotions. He's probably the best entertainment attorney in the state of Florida. If you need an attorney to look over any contract that pertains to the music business, Allen is that guy for you. Give him a call. He's the best.
Read more
25 Apr, 2023 by Allbros
Alan was the front line attorney handling a very complex and detailed renegotiation of an artist recording agreement with a major label, his attention to detail, timely responses and understanding of complex language was an essential asset in our representation. In addition several video agreements were negotiated on our behalf with all the same qualities in representing our interests and closing the deals, in a timely efficient and cost appropriate basis.
Read more
19 Apr, 2023 by Lydia
I knew Alan casually as the father of my daughter's friend when he read in the local paper about a high-profile legal issue I was dealing with as president of a non-profit organization. Our organization was small and under-funded, but Alan encouraged me to take on the challenge and provided me with pro-bono legal consultation throughout. He help me to secure pro-bono legal representation for our organization from a major international law firm and continued to advise me throughout the case. The case concluded successfully with an out-of-court settlement that granted all we had asked for. I could have never taken this on without Alan's invaluable assistance.
I honestly believe Alan to be the smartest person I know. I have always found him to be highly ethical. When he offers me legal advice, I always take it. I am happy to recommend Alan Barson without reservation.
Read more
18 Apr, 2023 by Ron
I have known and worked with Alan for over 20 years. He is very talented. Versed in most areas of law but most importantly has a solid business mind and good understanding of complex issues and has never failed to problem solve. He is "can do" lawyer. I highly recommend Alan.
Read more
02 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Horn by a friend in my personal injury matter, He provided me with his opinion on the matters as the case progressed. Andrew work hard on my case and he was able to recover a great settlement for me and I highly recommend Andrew Horn.
Read more
01 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Horn represented me and my mother in a accident case. He was very attentive. Did a great job and got us a great result. I highly recommend him.
Read more
29 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Has represented me and many of my friends with great results and you can always reach him.
Read more
23 May, 2018 by Shannon
Mr. Washington is as diligent as they come. I would recommend to all. I would absolutely consult with Mr. Washington again on a legal matter.
Read more
23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I have contacted Mr. Washington several times to ask his opinion on various legal issues, and he has always provided me with valuable insight.
Read more
22 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Washington reviewed multiple contracts for me and represented me well in a contract dispute. He was diligent, and I am thankful for his dedication.
Read more
25 Feb, 2020 by Patrick
I am in the music business and Ivan Parron is a legend. I was in a record deal that went south quick, and Ivan handled my situation like a professional. He got me out of my deal in 9 months, and got the IPs on all of 18 songs. He understands the need of each client, moves fast, and understands law. He has been in the business for a long time, and he works with a lot of athletes, musicians, and Trademark law. He also helped me with the trademark for my brand. This guy is a great lawyer, and has also become a mentor to me to help me understand what I am signing. Hire Ivan, trust me, he closes and gets the job done.
Read more
11 Mar, 2015 by Puma
I had questions because since screenwriting is a new field, an entirely new world. I was as anyone would be intimidated by the awards and pictures of famous actors in hit shows. To my pleasant surprise Lidia and Jackie greeted me as if we had been old friends. What a great example of what a winning team represents. As much as I am aware that I am a small fry in a Big Mac world no one at Parron Law made me feel that way. Ivan is a 5 star attorney and also a gentleman that I highly recommend!
Read more
21 May, 2011 by Lindahogan
My divorce lawyer , Ray Rafool reccomended Ivan Parron to me to assist me with legal assistance , now that I'm on my own and no longer married to Hulk Hogan . Ivan is
so amazing ! He is quick minded , very educated , and very experienced in entertainment law . he represents me in all of my new deals , he charges fairly , and has a great network of other professionals to reach out to for deal making . I love that he answers his phone , returns calls promptly , and can handle anything I need him for with my tv, website , book ,endorsements etc . He's a quick thinker and absolutely the lawyer you want to protect you !!!! And , he's cute !
Read more
12 Nov, 2022 by Jeff cobb
02 Mar, 2018 by Durée ross
It is such a pleasure to work with BMO’s labor and employment team. In our professional relationship, we value their ethical standards and dedication to clients. Time and time again, BMO delivers proven results while adhering to the highest industry standards. We highly recommend this wonderful team of professionals to anyone looking for legal counsel.
Read more
05 May, 2022 by Miguel paredes
Very professional team.
Read more
01 Mar, 2022 by Ap riv
02 Nov, 2022 by Magaly de la rosa aguilera
Mahnífica atención, muy profesionales .
Read more
25 Mar, 2015 by Diego
Luis Fernandez is an OUTSTANDING attorney. He is the fighter you want at your side when entering the court room. He was also the glue to our family when all seemed so dark.....and all this for a humble price. This guy walks in wielding his sword of Justice, kicking @$$ and taking names. All this while maintaining full and honest communication with his clients. WOW JUST WOW. Looking for a Champion? Want Justice served? Does it seem like the end? THIS IS YOUR REPRESENTATION RIGHT HERE. He is truly a MAESTRO at his craft.
Read more
05 May, 2022 by Miguel paredes
Very professional team.
Read more
01 Mar, 2022 by Ap riv
18 Sep, 2020 by Jhon delius
About a year ago I contact Ms. Poursine about a car accident that happen when I was on vacation.
I explain to her my situation how the accident was not my fault but the person who literally run in to my car try to blame me and have me pay them 10000 for medical expenses.
No one in the area wanted to take my case
But after I call this boss lady she said Jhon I can take your case
How much do you have and I'll take it
I did not have a lot of money to be honest but she take my case
She help me
She save me
And she was able to give me some of the money that I originally pay her and she made it go away withing 2 month.
For that I thank you
Now if you choose Ms. Poursine I promised she wil fight for you
She will make your problem go away
I'm not the type of person to write review but I'm so happy that I have to do it
When someone work hard for you. We have to learn to give them credit.
After everything was over the car company try to come after me all I did was forward the email to her and Bam she took care of it.
Listen you Dont have to believe me but I'm telling you if you pass on Ms. Poursine you just pass on a opportunity because a lot of people in that area just want money.
She actually do her job
Again thank you for everything
Read more
22 Feb, 2018 by Angela
I obtained this attorney via a law firm here in Ft. Lauderdale FL, in 2011. My case was a civil case in which I was being sued (By a doctor), along with several other officers, who worked with a different agency. Nevertheless, upon taking my case, Ms Poursine met with me for about an hour, took all the information and immediately went to work. What really drew me to her, was the fact that she listens, and she listens without prejudgements, or drawing any conclusions. She was aggressive, detailed, thorough, and persistent, and explained everything along the way. She follows up, as well as updates you on anything involving your case, be it minor or major, and she returns your calls. But most of all, I love her tenacity, and passion she displayed to me as her client. She calls it like she sees it, takes no prisoners (lol), and stops at nothing short of a win, or dismissal! Which is exactly what the outcome was with my case. I would without any hesitation recommend her.
Angela M
Read more
12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Montes to iniciated my new LLC , he was very helpful and cordial , efficient and I would recommend his services cause is not only about hiring someone to represent you is also about getting to know and learn the situation and its pros and con's, Montes assisted me in every step of the way.
Read more
20 Dec, 2011 by Juan
I had a complex business transaction , I was concern about getting things right and everything was taken care of By Alexis Gonzalez .He is a great listener . He payed attention to all my concerns and addressed them all very well. We made all the negotiations , amendments and subcontracts as needed to get all the protection I needed. He was very resourceful and knowledgeable . . I felt very well represented .
I definitely recommend this attorney and his firm.
Read more
16 Sep, 2010 by The cleaner...
smart, savvy, connected & juries LOVE him. SAVED-MY-BUTT. My advice, spend the money.
Read more
04 May, 2013 by Jgk
Handled our case with a level of expertise and efficiency that outflanked opposing side at every juncture. Highly trustworthy and client service centered. She is clearly highly respected in the legal community for her skills and accomplishments - and these skills are sharply honed. Very highly recommended.
Read more
23 Feb, 2018 by Glenn
Peter and his firm helped me with a complex case where I was cheated out of money. He is a very smart, professional, ethical attorney that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Read more
15 Jul, 2015 by David
An actual honest lawyer who will give you the right advice and not look to overcharge for unneeded time or services. Recommended from a friend who had a large real estate deal through him and who thought the same of him. Works larger contracts/cases, but will make time and give the same treatment to the smaller guy.
Read more
16 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I usually don't write reviews for services received. However, it wouldn't be fair to not write one for Hilary Metz. She was an amazing attorney during the 3 months I worked with her. She always went "above and beyond" for me. She ALWAYS told me how it really was, not what she knew I wanted to hear. Her fees are very fair. She WILL NOT drag things on in order to bill more hours for herself. Hilary has always been easy to reach and quick to reply with an answer. Basically, she's everything you could want in an attorney. I am very pleased I chose Hilary Metz for my legal situation. And don't let her young age deter you. This woman had more ethics and confidence than attorneys I've hired in the past. She helped me with a real estate case, even though that's not her principal specialty. Looking back, one would have never known. She always kept me informed and ALWAYS looked out for my best interest. All I can say is you won't be disappointed with Hilary Metz. She did all she could to help me through a very difficult period in my life and I will always be grateful to her.
Read more
30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Wani is highly professional, knowledgeable, and very timely in her work with us. We have used her mostly for SEC Filing matters and contract reviews.
Read more
12 Feb, 2020 by Robert
Mr. Nash has assisted me with a number of different legal issues. His hard work and dedication has enabled me to recover in several situations.
Read more
02 Dec, 2023 by Federico d.
Edmar is an exceptional attorney! His expertise and dedication shone through every step of the way. Highly recommend for anyone needing top-notch legal assistance!
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by Yacqueline perez
Muy profesional excelente abogado .
Read more
24 Jul, 2023 by Paola candelotto
Súper recomendado! Edmar supo manejar mi caso y siempre estuvo disponible para responder an mis preguntas y preocupaciones, lo que me hizo sentir apoyada y confiada en cada etapa del camino.
Gracias Edmar por tus servicios! 👏
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Gabriel guinea
Very professional, shows concern at all times for solving the problems, recognizes and promptly resolves the customer's needs.
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by 305 boss
El mejor abogado en toda la Florida se lo recomiendo 💯💯💯muy buena persona bendiciones mil gracias marco Quesada 🇺🇸💯🙏
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Yanet treto
El es el mejor abogado que he conocido muy profesional y una gran persona Dios lo bendiga siempre 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Kim green
If you are looking for excellent legal representation, I would highly recommend Jude Faccidomo. He helped resolved my legal case quickly and efficiently. The staff was also very professional.
Read more
14 Dec, 2023 by Neil d.
I recently had the privilege of being represented by Jude Faccidomo in a legal matter that spanned over two years. From the very beginning, his team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise, and a deep commitment to my case!
His attention to detail, thorough understanding of the law, and remarkable communication skills were evident throughout the process. Despite the complexities and challenges of my case, he navigated each step with a strategic approach, ensuring that I was well-informed and comfortable with every decision made.
The outcome of my case was more than favorable, thanks to his diligent and tireless efforts. It’s rare to find a legal team that combines such professional excellence with genuine care for their clients.
I absolutely recommend Jude Faccidomo to anyone in need of legal assistance. The expertise of his team, coupled with the compassionate approach, truly sets them apart. Thank you once again for turning a challenging period into a victorious one. My family, my team and I couldn’t be more pleased with your service.
Read more
09 May, 2023 by Pedro aquino
If a law firm could receive a Michelin star, this is a group that deserves it, and not only gain a lawyer but I gain a friend.
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.
