What Is an Entertainment Attorney and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Is the Job of an Entertainment Attorney?
The job duties of an entertainment attorney include performing legal tasks related to talent representation, contract negotiations, copyright issues, and other legal proceedings for clients that work in the entertainment industry. As a lawyer in this area of specialization, your legal responsibilities can include working for companies or talent in the music, TV, or film industries. Some attorneys pick one of these to specialize in, but you can also find work as a general entertainment attorney. You may stay on retainer for a single client and help them with multiple legal issues. For example, you can negotiate contracts and licensing agreements, handle copyright disputes, and offer advice about income and tax issues.
How Can I Become an Entertainment Attorney?
The qualifications that you need to become an entertainment attorney include a law degree, knowledge of entertainment law, and negotiating skills to obtain advantageous contracts for your client. You start on this career path by earning a bachelor’s degree, passing the LSAT exam, and enrolling in law school. During law school, you can specialize in entertainment law by taking specific classes and participating in internships at law firms that handle entertainment clients. After graduating, you can start working as a law clerk or, if you have already passed the state bar exam, an entry-level "associate" attorney in a law firm.
