The entertainment and media landscape is one built on innovation and disruption. From the onset of streaming to more recent trends such as the exploding creator economy or the development of NFTs, Manatt has helped clients stay ahead of the curve to navigate turbulence and take ownership of their personal brands since 1977. By leveraging our decades of experience and cross-industry integrated legal and consulting model, we help clients proactively identify new market opportunities that come from entertainment’s increasing convergence with other sectors. Manatt’s professionals have represented some of the biggest names in entertainment through high-profile M&A transactions, film and television deals, recording and publishing deals, catalog sales, and complex litigation. We’ve been recognized as a pioneer and leader in the industry, with regular accolades in national entertainment publications such as Variety, The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard, as well as international directories Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500.
Key Takeaways
- Manatt has over 45 years of experience in the entertainment industry, helping clients navigate innovation and disruption.
- Clients benefit from Manatt’s cross-industry integrated legal and consulting model to identify new market opportunities.
- Manatt’s professionals have represented some of the biggest names in entertainment through high-profile deals and complex litigation.
- Manatt is recognized as a pioneer and leader in the industry, with accolades from top publications and directories.
- Clients can rely on Manatt’s expertise and strategic counsel to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
Introduction to Entertainment Law
The entertainment industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, constantly challenged by the interplay between technology and consumer demand. As entertainment law services, music industry legal services, and film/tv production legal counsel become increasingly vital, navigating this complex environment requires a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances and a strategic approach to legal representation.
Navigating the Dynamic Entertainment Industry
The entertainment marketplace has undergone a transformative shift, with content emerging as the primary currency. Clients in the entertainment industry recognize that the disruptive environment and proliferation of new technologies present both challenges and opportunities. Leveraging talent contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and rights management services is crucial for staying ahead of the curve.
The Convergence of Technology and Consumer Demand
The rapid advancements in technology have significantly impacted the way entertainment and content are delivered and consumed. From royalty audits and licensing agreements to navigating labor disputes resolution and entertainment litigation, clients require legal expertise that can effectively bridge the gap between technological innovation and evolving consumer preferences.
Leveraging Legal Expertise for Success
As one of the first entertainment practices in the country, Manatt has over 45 years of experience in providing comprehensive entertainment law services to clients across the industry. Our team of seasoned professionals, with deep knowledge of celebrity contracts, intellectual property rights, media licensing, and talent representation, is equipped to help clients thrive in the rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
Music Industry Legal Services
For over four decades, Manatt has been the trusted legal advisor for the entertainment industry’s leading musicians, producers, and songwriters. Our comprehensive
music industry legal services
empower clients to navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of the music business.
Artist Representation and Advocacy
Our team of experienced lawyers provide strategic guidance and effective advocacy for artists across all genres. We represent clients in high-stakes, boundary-pushing deals, and handle the industry’s most consequential copyright law and contract negotiation matters. From management agreements and neighboring rights to producer deals and royalty management, we leverage our deep industry expertise to protect our clients’ interests and help them thrive.
Music Publishing and Catalog Management
Manatt’s music practice extends beyond artist representation, encompassing a robust music publishing and catalog management division. We assist clients in music publishing administration, catalog creation, and royalty audits and clearances. Our team also guides clients through complex catalog sales, global content distribution agreements, and strategic partnerships – ensuring our clients maximize the value of their musical assets.
Royalty Audits and Clearances
Navigating the complexities of royalty audits and clearances is crucial for artists and rights holders in the music industry. Manatt’s professionals have extensive experience conducting comprehensive royalty reviews and securing the necessary clearances to safeguard our clients’ entertainment law services and music industry legal services. We work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the full and fair compensation they are entitled to.
Film and Television Legal Support
Manatt’s film, TV and digital media practice provides both transactional and litigation services to production and distribution companies, studios, networks, banks, funds, and other investors, as well as a wide range of multihyphenated individuals, from actors, writers, directors and producers to book authors. Our lawyers broker deals across the United States and internationally, shaping the future of digital media and providing crucial strategic support to major players.
Production and Development Agreements
Our services include financing, production, development and distribution, rights acquisitions and clearances, syndication, content licensing, and output and slate agreements. We work closely with our clients to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry and ensure their projects are set up for success from the earliest stages of development.
Licensing and Distribution Deals
Manatt’s team of entertainment law experts negotiates and drafts licensing and distribution agreements, protecting the intellectual property rights of our clients and maximizing the reach and monetization of their content. Whether it’s securing global distribution deals or brokering lucrative licensing arrangements, we leverage our industry knowledge and relationships to deliver favorable outcomes for our clients.
Talent Agreements and Contract Negotiations
Talent is the lifeblood of the entertainment industry, and our lawyers excel at drafting and negotiating employment and talent agreements. From securing the services of A-list actors, writers, and directors to protecting the rights of multihyphenate creators, we ensure our clients’ interests are safeguarded through comprehensive contract negotiations.
Sports and Entertainment Crossover
Manatt attorneys have extensive experience in sports law, and we understand how league, team, and players association rules and requirements impact athlete business opportunities. We have served as inside and outside general counsel for professional sports franchises, representing teams from nearly every major professional sports league, esports teams and companies, sporting goods companies, ticketing companies and ticket brokers, and stadiums and other venues.
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Rights
We closely follow industry developments, such as the game-changing name, image and likeness (NIL) updates affecting student-athletes at NCAA member institutions. These updates now allow these athletes to monetize their NIL rights while maintaining their eligibility. Our team advises clients on navigating the complex regulatory compliance involved in NIL deals and exploring new digital fan engagement opportunities.
Sponsorship and Endorsement Deals
Manatt also counsels major corporate brands and networks on sports-related investments, sponsorships, and advertising and marketing campaigns. We help clients leverage cutting-edge innovative technologies and emerging business models, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and digital fan engagement strategies, to drive impactful sports sponsorship and endorsement deals.
Our deep understanding of the sports and entertainment industries, combined with our proven track record in contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and regulatory compliance, positions us as a trusted advisor for athletes, teams, brands, and media companies navigating the dynamic crossover between sports and entertainment.
| Service | Expertise |
|---|---|
| NIL Deals | Advise on navigating regulatory compliance for student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness rights |
| Sponsorship Agreements | Negotiate and structure impactful sponsorship deals between brands, teams, and athletes, leveraging emerging technologies and business models |
| Endorsement Deals | Counsel clients on endorsement agreements that protect intellectual property rights and align with brand strategies |
| Media Rights | Advise on media rights contracts, streaming strategies, and data privacy considerations for sports-related content |
Entertainment Law Services for Icons and Creators
Manatt has a deep history of working with the industry’s top talent, and our representation of these icons has only increased as the creator economy continues to flourish. Our team of legal and strategic advisors work with the biggest names in entertainment, branding and finance to achieve their goals of entrepreneurship, advocacy and innovation. Our vibrant icon practice features musicians, songwriters, recording legends, athletes, film and television stars, and high-profile executives who turn to us for our extensive soup-to-nuts experience expanding client portfolios of new business opportunities from concept to launch.
Branding and Business Growth Strategies
We guide content creators and new media companies through complex legal, commercial and strategic issues related to their business growth opportunities, offering services such as go-to-market and business growth strategies, investment advice, structuring global distribution networks and tours, trademark enforcement, new venture consulting and structuring, influencer and brand agreements, nonprofit formation and compliance, real estate transactions and litigation, book publishing, estate planning, and privacy and data security.
Influencer and Brand Partnerships
Our team helps clients navigate the expanding creator economy, negotiating influencer deals and brand partnerships that amplify their personal brands and unlock new revenue streams. We draw on our deep industry knowledge and relationships to connect clients with the right business growth strategies and brand collaborations that align with their vision and objectives.
Estate Planning and Legacy Protection
For our high-profile clients, we provide comprehensive estate planning and legacy protection services to safeguard their assets and ensure their creative work and philanthropic efforts live on. Our professionals work closely with clients to develop tailored estate planning solutions, including new venture consulting, nonprofit formation, and real estate transactions, all designed to preserve their hard-earned legacies.
Live Entertainment and Event Planning
Manatt offers interdisciplinary, full-service and scalable live entertainment solutions to a diverse client base. Our professionals’ live entertainment experience includes a variety of matters across concerts and festivals, sports events, pop-ups, conferences and expos, corporate and internal events, fundraisers and charity events, food events, and fashion shows. We infuse such seasoned experience and creative thinking into all aspects of these events and work closely with our clients to choreograph and implement all matters necessary to result in an optimum presentation in a manner advantageous to the client’s business model.
Tour and Festival Agreements
Our offerings include contractual aspects of worldwide tours, ticketing, tour employment, merchandising deals, venue agreements, vendor agreements, livestreaming agreements, and agreements with agencies and promoters. We assist clients in navigating the complexities of live entertainment, ensuring their tour and festival agreements are structured to protect their interests and maximize revenue opportunities.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management
Manatt’s entertainment law team provides guidance on regulatory compliance and risk management for live events. We help clients navigate a range of legal and operational considerations, including licensing, permitting, health and safety regulations, and crisis management. By identifying potential risks and implementing proactive strategies, we work to minimize disruptions and ensure the success of our clients’ live entertainment initiatives.
Sponsorship and Media Partnerships
Securing strategic sponsorships and media partnerships is crucial for the success of live events. Our team negotiates and drafts sponsorship agreements, media partnerships, and influencer agreements to help clients leverage their platforms and reach new audiences. We also advise on IP strategies, advertising compliance, and other legal aspects of these high-profile collaborations.
| Service | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Tour Agreements | Contractual aspects of worldwide tours, ticketing, tour employment, merchandising deals |
| Festival Agreements | Venue agreements, vendor agreements, livestreaming agreements, agency and promoter agreements |
| Regulatory Compliance | Licensing, permitting, health and safety regulations, crisis management |
| Sponsorship and Media Partnerships | Sponsorship agreements, media partnerships, influencer agreements, IP strategies, advertising compliance |
| Additional Services | Fundraising and financial restructuring, technology integration, concessionaire agreements, talent agreements, audiovisual agreements, stage agreements, tour riders, social media strategies |
Gaming and Esports Legal Counsel
Manatt’s lawyers and strategic consultants bring decades of licensing, technology, advertising and entertainment experience to companies and individuals in the games and esports industries. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities in this rapidly evolving space and provide comprehensive legal services to help our clients navigate the complex landscape.
Our team has extensive knowledge of the entertainment law services required to support gaming and esports businesses, from licensing agreements and technology integration to advertising compliance and emerging business models. We work closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that protect their intellectual property, mitigate risks, and capitalize on new revenue streams.
| Service | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Negotiating and drafting complex licensing agreements for gaming titles, virtual items, and content distribution. |
| Technology | Advising on the integration of cutting-edge technology, such as cloud-based platforms, mobile applications, and emerging business models like blockchain and NFTs. |
| Advertising | Ensuring compliance with advertising regulations and helping clients navigate influencer partnerships, product placements, and in-game monetization strategies. |
| Esports | Structuring and negotiating agreements for esports tournaments, team sponsorships, media rights, and player contracts. |
Whether you’re a gaming studio, esports organization, or industry-leading technology provider, Manatt’s multidisciplinary team is equipped to deliver the entertainment law services you need to thrive in this dynamic and fast-paced sector.
Entertainment Law Services
Manatt’s entertainment law practice covers the full spectrum of services, including intellectual property protection, contract drafting and negotiation, and litigation and dispute resolution.
We help clients safeguard their creative works and assets, draft and negotiate complex agreements, and resolve disputes through effective legal strategies. Our team’s deep industry knowledge and strong relationships enable us to provide practical and effective counsel to navigate the intricate legal landscape of the entertainment industry.
Intellectual Property Protection
Our entertainment law professionals are adept at securing and enforcing our clients’ intellectual property rights, including copyright, trademark, and related rights. We work closely with clients to develop comprehensive IP strategies that protect their valuable assets and ensure they maintain control over their creative works and brands.
Contract Drafting and Negotiation
Navigating the complex web of entertainment contracts can be a daunting task. Manatt’s seasoned attorneys have extensive experience drafting and negotiating a wide range of agreements, from talent representation and licensing deals to complex co-production and distribution arrangements. We leverage our industry knowledge to protect our clients’ interests and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
When disputes arise, our entertainment law team is well-equipped to represent clients in litigation, arbitration, and other forms of dispute resolution. We have a proven track record of successfully defending our clients’ rights and resolving sensitive matters through effective legal strategies tailored to the unique needs of the entertainment industry.
Why Choose Our Entertainment Law Firm?
As one of the first entertainment law firms in the country, Manatt has over 45 years of industry experience representing some of the biggest names in the industry. Our team of seasoned professionals has a deep, multi-faceted understanding of the entertainment landscape and is well-equipped to handle a wide range of legal matters.
Industry Experience and Expertise
Manatt’s entertainment law practice has been at the forefront of the industry for over four decades, navigating the complexities of the entertainment landscape with unparalleled expertise. Our team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insights to every client engagement, ensuring our clients receive the most effective and up-to-date legal counsel.
Personalized and Comprehensive Services
At Manatt, we understand that each client’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer personalized services tailored to meet the specific requirements of our clients. Our comprehensive services cover the full spectrum of entertainment law, from intellectual property protection to contract negotiation and dispute resolution, allowing us to serve as a one-stop-shop for our clients’ legal needs.
Strategic Partnerships and Resources
Leveraging our extensive strategic partnerships and broad network of industry resources, Manatt is uniquely positioned to provide our clients with comprehensive solutions that address their most pressing challenges. Our presence in key entertainment hubs like Los Angeles and New York allows us to stay at the forefront of industry trends and developments, ensuring our clients receive the most effective and innovative legal counsel available.
Recent Case Studies and Successes
Manatt, a leading entertainment law firm, has a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes for clients across the entertainment industry. Our team of seasoned professionals has navigated high-profile case studies involving mergers and acquisitions, complex film and television deals, intellectual property rights protection for artists and creators, and sensitive dispute resolutions.
Through strategic legal counsel and effective representation, we consistently achieve our clients’ business objectives. Whether representing a renowned recording artist in a landmark catalog sale or guiding a production company through a multi-million-dollar film financing transaction, Manatt’s client successes demonstrate our commitment to excellence and our ability to navigate the intricate legal landscape of the entertainment industry.
| Client | Matter | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Global Music Superstar | Catalog Sale and Rights Management | Negotiated a $200 million deal for the client’s music catalog, securing long-term revenue streams and protecting their intellectual property rights. |
| Acclaimed Film Production Company | Financing and Distribution Agreements | Advised the client on a $150 million film financing and distribution package, enabling the production and worldwide release of a critically acclaimed motion picture. |
| Rising Social Media Influencer | Branding and Partnerships | Developed a comprehensive business strategy and negotiated several lucrative brand partnerships to help the client expand their digital footprint and monetize their growing influence. |
“Manatt’s expertise and strategic approach have been invaluable in navigating the complex legal landscape of the entertainment industry. Their team consistently delivers exceptional results for us.”
Conclusion
In the dynamic and ever-evolving entertainment industry, having the right legal partner is crucial for artists, producers, and organizations to navigate the complexities and seize new opportunities. Manatt’s entertainment law practice offers comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique needs of our clients, drawing on decades of experience and a deep understanding of the industry.
From music and film to sports and the creator economy, our team of seasoned professionals is committed to providing strategic counsel and effective representation to help our clients thrive in this rapidly changing landscape. With our extensive industry expertise and unwavering dedication to our clients’ success, we are poised to guide you through the ever-evolving entertainment sector and secure the best possible outcomes for your business.
As your trusted legal partner, Manatt is ready to leverage our comprehensive capabilities and strategic resources to support your artist representation, producer support, and all other entertainment law needs. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities, seize new opportunities, and position your venture for long-term growth and success.
