What does an entertainment attorney do?
Entertainment lawyers represent creators and talent in film and television, content creation and social media, the music industry, podcasting, and other related fields. Entertainment lawyers assist talent in negotiating contracts, protecting their intellectual property rights, setting up holding companies to shield artists from liability, and handle other legal matters as they arise.
Why do artists need entertainment lawyers?
Artists should hire attorneys in addition to their agent and manager, because an attorney will specialize in different areas for the artist. Talent Agents serve as the liaison between creative talent and people looking to hire the creative talent. Talent agents can advise and negotiate contracts, however, they do not (generally) advise on the legal issues underlying the contract. A manager will handle the artist’s day to day concerns and the logistics of their bookings or partnerships. A manager can also supervise and negotiate contracts, but like a talent agent, the manager (usually) has no legal background.
Meanwhile, an entertainment attorney handles the legal issues behind the contracts, partnerships, bookings, and the creation of works. An entertainment attorney will ensure that the contracts and advice of the talent agent are in the best interest of the artist. Artists should hire entertainment attorneys for risk management in their contracts, to ensure that their intellectual property is protected, and to best protect their assets.
When Should I hire an Entertainment Lawyer?
Once a contract is signed between both parties, each party is legally bound to the terms and duties listed therein. A lawyer can negotiate or draft a contract in a risk minimizing manner and explain your options when considering alternatives. Lawyers are important in ensuring that your interests are protected in contracts and that you understand your rights and obligations to avoid breach of the contract.
When an artist is represented by a lawyer in contract negotiations, it adds legitimacy to the artist’s reputation. This can make the talent a more attractive prospective client but can also help to get the talent a better deal in negotiations.
Most notably, a lawyer can protect the talent’s rights and shield them from liability. Intellectual property rights are a major part of entertainment contracts and entertainment negotiations, and talent will want to ensure that their rights to their work are protected in their contracts.
Additionally, many artists set up holding companies or loan out companies to shield them from liability. This can help to protect an artist’s assets if there is a lawsuit against the artist. A lawyer can help to set up the company and make sure it has all the necessary documents and contracts. Overall, hiring a lawyer is the best way to protect your rights when entering into any contract.
If you require the assistance of an entertainment lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our attorneys are well-equipped to address a wide range of legal issues.
