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17 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I only needed a few minutes with Maxwell to get his advice on a project I am working on. He understood right away what it was that I needed, and offered great advice in a friendly, professional manner. I look forward to continuing to work with Maxwell as my project develops.
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08 Sep, 2012 by Alex
I've know max for a number of years. Most of which were spent in a non professional manner as friends, and on stages as members of a band. When I came to a point where I needed some legal representation and advice, I naturally turned to Max. Although I expected his knowledge and service to be top notch, I was blown away by his professionalism and approach.
As working with people who have ties outside of any professional matter can sometimes lead to less comprehensive dialogue, and a more laid back style of communication and commitment, Max and I walked through the details of the work I needed done, laid out a time line of what was needed to complete my request and very quickly registered the final work.
I felt as if I had "lucked out" on finding good representation, and I feel this way totally independently of our personal friendship. I would absolutely recommend Maxwell Felsheim to anybody looking for knowledgeable, personable, representation or even a good saxophone player for that matter!
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16 Jun, 2012 by Heatbox
I've been a long time client and an even longer time friend of Maxwell. He has always been 100% honest with me, and very open about his practice. Some might say he is honest to a fault:-) I can't recommend him highly enough.
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23 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Jeff has a strong understanding of business and he is very inquisitive. He believes in helping those who may not be able to help themselves. It is obvious that he loves his work and is thrilled by the prospect of delving into new ideas or unraveling some complicated problems. He is always finding creative approaches to getting his clients educated and is very responsive to help asap. He has always come with solutions and not more problems to pay for. I like Jeff's creativity and eagerness to learn, teach and promote not just himself but all of his clients as well.
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26 May, 2013 by Katherine
Aaron helped me with copyright registration and entertainment law issues related to publishing and screen play issues. He is an excellent communicator and kept me informed regularly. Aaron worked quickly and efficiently and adhered to deadlines. Aaron has a solid understanding of the law. I was very pleased with the work he did for me. I will be using Aaron again for future projects.
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07 Sep, 2019 by Josh smith
13 Jan, 2025 by Joe g
28 Dec, 2024 by Karina elze
I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Señor Evan as my attorney. His dedication, accessibility, and genuine passion for helping his clients truly stand out. From the very beginning, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain fully present and committed, offering clear and timely communication every step of the way.
Señor Evan approaches each case with care, expertise, and an admirable level of professionalism. His ability to focus entirely on the needs of his clients, combined with his deep understanding of the law, makes him an outstanding attorney. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone seeking a reliable, compassionate, and results-driven professional. Thank you, Señor Evan, for your exceptional work and support!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Linda hall
My initial experience was great, but it significantly deteriorated over time.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Ozzy
I've been contacting Blake Iverson for some time now. I had general questions about the legality of owning or pursuing a business in Minnesota. He's been great help all the way through with answering my questions. I have not scheduled a consultation with Blake, as I don't need to yet. But when I do, I'm definite that Blake will deliver more than enough needed in the time provided. Highly recommend Blake, if you need the help.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Joel
Blake has been incredible to work with. Fair minded, direct, and with a ton of experience to lean on in not just handling legal matters, but advice in handling general procedures for the benefit of a client. Hired a lawyer, ended up with someone that represented my interests in as many ways as he had the experience to support. All of the legal work he did was followed up with phone calls to ensure I had the best understanding possible of what was going on. Really a different experience from most attorneys I've dealt with. Will hire him again.
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16 Jun, 2015 by Adam
With Blake Iverson, you get a lawyer with impeccable credentials, a man with unimpeachable values, a friend with boundless integrity, a public citizen of laudable virtues, and a dude of abidable dudeness. He's just a hell of a guy. I was able to launch a publishing imprint only because of his counsel and belief and generosity with his knowledge. I more than recommend him. If I were to catch wind that you considered hiring him and didn't, we would have a problem. He's the only choice for legal counsel in Minnesota's creative community, and it's not even close.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Lesly torres
He really made sure i understood everything during the whole process! Made it easy and responded with any questions fairly fast!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Ryan freeman
I wish there was a rating of 1 to 10 because Mr. Keyser deserves a 10 out of 10! The overall experience of going to court can be a very unsettling and stressful process... Mr. Keyser genuinely cares about his clients and the overall outcome of their cases!
While I was drowning in anxiety and uncertainty of my case, Mr. Keyser walked me through the entire process and actually got me a better outcome than I had originally anticipated!
I would highly recommend to have Mr. Keyser in your corner for all of your law/court needs!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Jason edmonds
Kristine Zajac met with me in-person, she was kind and approachable. She helped me navigate a confusing child support situation from an old divorce decree. Her law firm was insightful and very responsive throughout the process, and they filed the new stipulation with the courts, which was very helpful, and fast.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chris lewis
Adam Johnson is an amazing attorney and very knowledgeable especially in my cases. Him and his firm are very responsive and communicate very well. I would highly recommend them for your legal assistance.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Francisco e morocho ortiz
Good guys
Thank you
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07 Jan, 2025 by Josh ellingson
After speaking with numerous representation regarding a traffic violation; Adam was the clear choice with his knowledge and plan right from the start. Not only was he successful at coming to an immediate resolution it was much more favorable then expected. Zero work on my end and he made it seem effortless. Thank you sir
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17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Joe helped us navigate several hurdles and challenges in regards to child support, post decree issues and navigating the family law system. He also helped us with a conciliation court case. He was a bright spot in our dark experience in the family law world. He is down to earth, genuine, and calming in the midst of the chaos of legal drama. Even when busy, he always responded to us via email or phone right away to talk through the latest challenge we were up against and create a strategy/plan. Before we met Joe, we were working with another attorney and ultimately had to walk away from her because she was making matters worse by stirring things up so that I would need her services forever--and she'd be paid forever! Working with Joe was the opposite experience. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, professional and efficient, but he also truly listened and understood the nuances and complexities of the issues. He could follow us throwing out all kinds of information at once and he would synthesize it beautifully and truly “get it”. He then provided a pathway for an outcome that was best for our child and our family in a straightforward and realistic way. His communication and listening skills are impossible to beat as well as his genuine personality. He genuinely wanted to see things work out for our child and our family so we didn’t need to be caught up in the family law system. I have yet to meet another lawyer that genuinely wants to see that for his clients. All of his efforts ended up helping us ultimately do a stepparent adoption! He is the BEST OF THE BEST and we are forever grateful to him.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Joe g
28 Dec, 2024 by Karina elze
I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Señor Evan as my attorney. His dedication, accessibility, and genuine passion for helping his clients truly stand out. From the very beginning, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain fully present and committed, offering clear and timely communication every step of the way.
Señor Evan approaches each case with care, expertise, and an admirable level of professionalism. His ability to focus entirely on the needs of his clients, combined with his deep understanding of the law, makes him an outstanding attorney. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone seeking a reliable, compassionate, and results-driven professional. Thank you, Señor Evan, for your exceptional work and support!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Linda hall
My initial experience was great, but it significantly deteriorated over time.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Bailey meixner
I applied for the Human Resources Assistant position with Stinson, LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in August 2024. I was called the next day after applying via their online job application on their website.
My initial telephone interview was with Chelsea L. Clennan, Director of Human Resources for Stinson, LLP, who's located in their Wichita, Kansas office.
Chelsea was immediately complimenting me, telling me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that my skillsets are perfect for the role, that they would move quick for me in the recruitment process, they would make same-day job offers if needed-- immediately raising red flags for me that she was not a genuine person. She immediately moved me on to the second and final stage of the hiring process: the final interview with the hiring manager, the HR manager of the Minneapolis office-- both of whom reported to Chelsea.
My suspicions of Chelsea would prove correct when, all the sudden, after letting her know after my final interview on Friday afternoon that I did have another offer, which I'd received the day prior, Chelsea responded to my email quickly, letting me know her and her hiring team would meet on Monday. In her email to me, which I've attached, she even told me her team considered me a top candidate.
Monday came and went-- nothing, crickets. Tuesday, I received the attached screen shot email, letting me know they'd meet later that day. I replied, thanked her for keeping me in the loop, even further expressing my gratitude for keeping in touch with me and making me feel respected and valued.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday -- absolute radio silence from Chelsea L. Clennan. I sent a polite follow up email Friday afternoon-- again, I had been ghosted. Not a single reply or word from Chelsea or her team ever since -- despite her shtick of "you're a top candidate" and "we move quickly."
I shudder to think how Stinson, LLP employees -- whether in Minneapolis or Kansas -- are treated if Chelsea treated a job applicant -- me -- with what I felt like was pure garbage and disrespect.
Personally, I do not recommend Stinson as a place to work based on my experience as a job candidate and how I feel I was treated.
When people like the human resources director show you their true colors-- believe them.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Riley d
I walked in alone to a hearing riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, with no legal representation. Not knowing what was going to be my outcome, especially over a situation that should not have even been brought to a level where court would have been involved, I requested a court appointed attorney.
I have never lucked out so much in my entire life than I did that day. Stinson Law firm just so happened to be providing pro bono work that morning and took my case. The two attorneys I worked with not only helped me feel validated in my disbelief that I was even there, but also were the most knowledgeable powerhouse of representation I could have ever asked for.
If I were to sum it all up in 3 reasons why I would recommend them to anyone, it would be:
Top notch negotiation skills, an unmatched knowledge of the law surrounding my scenario, and for being the most personable, down to earth people, to have the pleasure of working with.
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19 Jan, 2024 by William ebert
Top notch professional attorneys and warm and friendly staff one of the best places to go for support
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09 Jan, 2025 by Rhys roemhildt
Despite their website stating they handle cases that include Economical Damages that include,
-Lost wages from missed time at work
-Loss of earning capacity
-Property damage, such as damage to your vehicle in the crash
And Non-Economic Damages that include,
-Emotional issues (stress, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, etc.)
-Humiliation
I guess, according to the representative I spoke to, that information is false. I wasnt even given a chance to speak to a lawyer despite mentioning them being listed on their website. She was just rude and repeated her statement. If you're looking for a lawyer regarding those damages, don't bother calling these guys. You'll only get frustrated.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Wrong gildarts
I recently had the pleasure of working with TSR injury Law, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From the start, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to my case. They took the time to explain every detail, answered all my questions, and made me feel confident throughout the entire process.
Their expertise and attention to detail were evident in every step, and I felt genuinely cared for as a client. Thanks to their hard work, the outcome exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for a law firm that combines professionalism with a personal touch, TSR Injury Law is the one to choose. Thanks again for the outstanding service!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Jeff claseman
Partnered with an out of state firm for my claim Rich from TSR gave great advice and did an outstanding job representing me.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Rick lenoue
Thanks to Tyler & Abigail for the quick turnaround and advice on my case. Tyler is very pleasant with a great personality. He got me ahead of the situation with his advice. Things turned out just as he told me. I appreciate his kind help ! Definitely recco his services.
RL
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19 Aug, 2024 by Evku her
I have no words to expressed how happy and grateful I am to Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, Especially Hannah, she's has been there for me from Day 1 to the finish, couldn't express happier gratitude for all of her hard work. They have done such a great job defending my name through an accusations. I am glad and so relieved of such stressed I had when the case was against me and the State.
I recommend them to anyone who has case against them. Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm
Will fight for your rights and defend your case. If I can give then 10000 stars, I will!!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Churching vue
I would like to take this moment to thank Joe Tamburino, Tyler Dahlen and Ashley Heaney(whom first worked with me). I am a person whom usually do not get into trouble as I continue to live my life trying to always do better. But I became a victim to my own actions as I made a choice which changed my life. With the help from this Law firm they helped me be able to see that there is still a future for myself and more to look forward towards. I thought I would be going into this case with lost of hope but with Mr. Tamburino and Mr. Dahlen fighting for me until the settlement agreement, they gave me hope that I wouldn't have to spend a big portion of my life in a facility. That I can continue my life without worries after this case was over. They handled my complicated case with great mindset and was always helpful in all the steps. I would strongly recommend this law firm as they do a lot to help assist you as long as you are willing accept the help they provide.
Lastly I would like to thank Mr. Tamburino again!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Bailey meixner
I applied for the Human Resources Assistant position with Stinson, LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in August 2024. I was called the next day after applying via their online job application on their website.
My initial telephone interview was with Chelsea L. Clennan, Director of Human Resources for Stinson, LLP, who's located in their Wichita, Kansas office.
Chelsea was immediately complimenting me, telling me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that my skillsets are perfect for the role, that they would move quick for me in the recruitment process, they would make same-day job offers if needed-- immediately raising red flags for me that she was not a genuine person. She immediately moved me on to the second and final stage of the hiring process: the final interview with the hiring manager, the HR manager of the Minneapolis office-- both of whom reported to Chelsea.
My suspicions of Chelsea would prove correct when, all the sudden, after letting her know after my final interview on Friday afternoon that I did have another offer, which I'd received the day prior, Chelsea responded to my email quickly, letting me know her and her hiring team would meet on Monday. In her email to me, which I've attached, she even told me her team considered me a top candidate.
Monday came and went-- nothing, crickets. Tuesday, I received the attached screen shot email, letting me know they'd meet later that day. I replied, thanked her for keeping me in the loop, even further expressing my gratitude for keeping in touch with me and making me feel respected and valued.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday -- absolute radio silence from Chelsea L. Clennan. I sent a polite follow up email Friday afternoon-- again, I had been ghosted. Not a single reply or word from Chelsea or her team ever since -- despite her shtick of "you're a top candidate" and "we move quickly."
I shudder to think how Stinson, LLP employees -- whether in Minneapolis or Kansas -- are treated if Chelsea treated a job applicant -- me -- with what I felt like was pure garbage and disrespect.
Personally, I do not recommend Stinson as a place to work based on my experience as a job candidate and how I feel I was treated.
When people like the human resources director show you their true colors-- believe them.
Read more
06 Feb, 2024 by Riley d
I walked in alone to a hearing riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, with no legal representation. Not knowing what was going to be my outcome, especially over a situation that should not have even been brought to a level where court would have been involved, I requested a court appointed attorney.
I have never lucked out so much in my entire life than I did that day. Stinson Law firm just so happened to be providing pro bono work that morning and took my case. The two attorneys I worked with not only helped me feel validated in my disbelief that I was even there, but also were the most knowledgeable powerhouse of representation I could have ever asked for.
If I were to sum it all up in 3 reasons why I would recommend them to anyone, it would be:
Top notch negotiation skills, an unmatched knowledge of the law surrounding my scenario, and for being the most personable, down to earth people, to have the pleasure of working with.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by William ebert
Top notch professional attorneys and warm and friendly staff one of the best places to go for support
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Bailey meixner
I applied for the Human Resources Assistant position with Stinson, LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in August 2024. I was called the next day after applying via their online job application on their website.
My initial telephone interview was with Chelsea L. Clennan, Director of Human Resources for Stinson, LLP, who's located in their Wichita, Kansas office.
Chelsea was immediately complimenting me, telling me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that my skillsets are perfect for the role, that they would move quick for me in the recruitment process, they would make same-day job offers if needed-- immediately raising red flags for me that she was not a genuine person. She immediately moved me on to the second and final stage of the hiring process: the final interview with the hiring manager, the HR manager of the Minneapolis office-- both of whom reported to Chelsea.
My suspicions of Chelsea would prove correct when, all the sudden, after letting her know after my final interview on Friday afternoon that I did have another offer, which I'd received the day prior, Chelsea responded to my email quickly, letting me know her and her hiring team would meet on Monday. In her email to me, which I've attached, she even told me her team considered me a top candidate.
Monday came and went-- nothing, crickets. Tuesday, I received the attached screen shot email, letting me know they'd meet later that day. I replied, thanked her for keeping me in the loop, even further expressing my gratitude for keeping in touch with me and making me feel respected and valued.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday -- absolute radio silence from Chelsea L. Clennan. I sent a polite follow up email Friday afternoon-- again, I had been ghosted. Not a single reply or word from Chelsea or her team ever since -- despite her shtick of "you're a top candidate" and "we move quickly."
I shudder to think how Stinson, LLP employees -- whether in Minneapolis or Kansas -- are treated if Chelsea treated a job applicant -- me -- with what I felt like was pure garbage and disrespect.
Personally, I do not recommend Stinson as a place to work based on my experience as a job candidate and how I feel I was treated.
When people like the human resources director show you their true colors-- believe them.
Read more
06 Feb, 2024 by Riley d
I walked in alone to a hearing riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, with no legal representation. Not knowing what was going to be my outcome, especially over a situation that should not have even been brought to a level where court would have been involved, I requested a court appointed attorney.
I have never lucked out so much in my entire life than I did that day. Stinson Law firm just so happened to be providing pro bono work that morning and took my case. The two attorneys I worked with not only helped me feel validated in my disbelief that I was even there, but also were the most knowledgeable powerhouse of representation I could have ever asked for.
If I were to sum it all up in 3 reasons why I would recommend them to anyone, it would be:
Top notch negotiation skills, an unmatched knowledge of the law surrounding my scenario, and for being the most personable, down to earth people, to have the pleasure of working with.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by William ebert
Top notch professional attorneys and warm and friendly staff one of the best places to go for support
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09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek
I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein
Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson
22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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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.
