how to speak to a music lawyer

It is important how to reach music lawyer in case you need to hire one. You should call them and ask to speak with someone in the legal department. Be sure to tell them how to reach music lawyer as well as what the situation is so they can let you know what to expect.

Full Answer

How do I find a good music lawyer?

There is no substitute for a recommendation from someone who has had a good experience with a music lawyer, or a warning from someone who has been burned. Your contacts' contacts are your best pool of information. But it's also smart to do some independent research. Start by doing a Google search for entertainment lawyers in your area.

What does a music lawyer do?

Music lawyers are under the umbrella of entertainment law, and many specialize in a certain part of the music industry. Understanding what you need legal help with will make it easier for you to find a lawyer who is up to the task. Knowing whether you are looking to build a long-term relationship with a lawyer is also something to consider.

Do I need a lawyer to sign a music contract?

If you're new to the business and this is your first contract, you probably don't need to put a lawyer on a (costly) retainer. That kind of arrangement is more appropriate for a label managing multiple artists, or someone negotiating numerous contracts with different parties.

Should I hire a lawyer?

If you get a bad feeling or just don't hit it off with a candidate, don't feel any obligation to hire them. After you have had your initial meetings with your short list, choose the lawyer that has the skills for your particular case at a price you can afford. It is also important that you feel comfortable with your lawyer.

What to do if a lawyer has never done what you need him or her to do?

If a lawyer has never done what you need him or her to do, you may end up paying for the hours spent learning the subject . Try to get a list of musicians he or she has worked with. These are people you could call up for references. You also want to get a feel for the lawyer’s payment system.

How to maintain a relationship with a lawyer?

The number one key to maintaining a relationship with your lawyer is to keep the communication going. Be extremely clear about what you want, and if you don’t understand something, ask the lawyer to explain. Do as much reading on the subject as you can so you’re able to actually participate in the discussion and understand the impact of the decisions. Remember – this is your career, and you want to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into, especially before signing any kind of contract. The more you personally know, the better decisions you can make.

Where can I register my copyright?

You can even register your own copyrights on the US Copyright Office’s website. To do this, however, you need as good an understanding of copyright law as possible.

Can a lawyer hold the label's interests above yours?

In this case, the lawyer could hold the label’s interests above yours.

Do I need to know music industry experts?

You don’t necessarily need to know music industry experts – other musicians are often the easiest route to great music business connections, especially in your town. If you know or collaborate with other musicians, chances are they’ve either worked with an entertainment lawyer themselves or know someone else who has.

Do lawyers pay retainers upfront?

Often, you’ll pay a retainer upfront, which is what the lawyer's payments will come out of. Larger firms will charge higher fees but may also have more experience. In contrast, smaller firms may be able to provide you with more personal attention and place higher priority on your issue.

What does an attorney need to know about music?

In the case of the music industry, attorneys needs to have a deep understanding of a very complex set of laws (intellectual property, contracts, etc.) in addition to the business and intricate payment practices of a very unique industry.

What happens when you hire an attorney?

Once you've officially hired the attorney, you can then send whatever contracts or other information you need the attorney to review. The attorney can also start making phone calls or otherwise acting on your behalf.

Do you have to sign an engagement letter with an attorney?

When you've communicated to the attorney that you would like to hire him or her, the attorney will most likely require you to sign an engagement letter or fee agreement.

What is the role of a music lawyer?

Whatever your role within the music industry, you will usually be looking to your lawyer for three things: advice on contracts, litigation, and general advice and support.

What does a lawyer do?

A lawyer will be able to review a contract you have been asked to sign (by a record label or publishing company for example) and explain each clause of the agreement to ensure you understand them. Your lawyer will also let you know if the terms of the contract are industry standard, or if there is anything unusually restrictive which you would need to negotiate down.

Is it good to have a good relationship with a lawyer?

Having a generally good relationship with your lawyer can prove very useful, as they tend to be a good source for honest, independent advice on a range of issues. In an industry in which people often tell you what you want to hear, having a lawyer in your corner telling you what you need to know can prove invaluable.

Is it good to have a lawyer's contact info?

It is also generally good to have the contact details of a lawyer somewhere in your files (even if it’s just on social media!), as you will sometimes need to act quickly on a deal and it will save you time if you already know a lawyer who specialises in the right area.

Who are Lawyers for Musicians?

Lawyers for musicians are legal representatives who specialize in the music industry. These lawyers represent record labels, musicians, and others in the music industry and focus on issues like trademark disputes, copyright violations, and even recording contract signing.

Why Do Musicians Need Lawyers?

Going into the music industry involves more than getting paid to make music. There are extensive record deals to be signed, intellectual property to be protected, and trademarks and copyrights to establish. Musicians need lawyers because navigating these areas can be difficult and sometimes even impossible without the right know-how.

Common Contracts Used by Musicians

Having a lawyer to consult and trust in when it comes to contract signing is one of the biggest benefits for musicians who hire entertainment lawyers. Since contracts in this field can deal with huge amounts of money and can span several years, signing without a professional on your side is not something you want to risk doing.

How Much Does a Music Lawyer Cost?

Contracts in the entertainment industry can get long, complicated, and confusing. The good news is music lawyers are well-versed in reading, editing, and making sure these contracts benefit you. However, there is a price that you must pay for that expertise.

How to Find a Good Music Lawyer

Locating a good music lawyer might seem like a daunting task, and it can be intimidating, especially if you have no experience. However, it is not as difficult as it may sound. Here are three quick steps you can take to make sure an entertainment lawyer is the right fit for you:

Meet some of our Lawyers

I'm a business law generalist with over 24 years of experience, including as in-house General Counsel, as outside counsel through my own firm and as an attorney in an Am Law 100 law firm. My employers and clients uniformly appreciate my ability to (i) negotiate and close transactions quickly and effectively, and (ii) to make the complex simple.

What to Know Before You Seek an Attorney to Represent You

Heather McDonald wrote about music careers for The Balance Careers. She has worked in the music industry for over two decades.

Determine Your Needs

Music lawyers are under the umbrella of entertainment law, and many specialize in a certain part of the music industry. Understanding what you need legal help with will make it easier for you to find a lawyer who is up to the task. Knowing whether you are looking to build a long-term relationship with a lawyer is also something to consider.

How to Find a Lawyer

Once you know what you need from a lawyer, start asking those in your music industry circles. You are almost certain to know someone who has had to visit a lawyer for a music industry issue before.

Meet With Your Short List

Whether you do it by phone or in person, have a brief question and answer session with your short list of lawyers. Find out what they specialize in, how soon they can work on your case, how much they charge and what their payment terms are. If you get a bad feeling or just don't hit it off with a candidate, don't feel any obligation to hire them.