A music attorney negotiates contracts and copyright agreements between musicians and record companies, ensuring fair compensation and protection for both parties. They specialize in entertainment law and require a law degree and certification. They work with all types of artists and oversee trademarks and merchandise production.
A music attorney is responsible for overseeing the legality of contracts and other transactions between musicians and the parties who pay them. They can negotiate contracts between artists and record companies, as well as copyright agreements and other binding documents. Music law is a specialization that lies within the broader category of entertainment law. Lawyers in this sector may be available for one-off contract negotiation or for an indefinite contract.
Someone who is qualified to be a music advocate must have a law degree and be board certified. He should pay particular attention to licensing, copyright and contract laws. The aim is to ensure that both the artist and the recording industry receive due compensation for the work they do and are equally protected.
Music attorneys can work with all types of artists, including those who produce, write, or perform music. Sometimes they can help artists get a record deal, but generally they aren’t scouts. They are considered transactional lawyers, as opposed to litigation lawyers who spend time in the courtroom. These attorneys typically speak with their clients on a regular basis and spend most of their time speaking, reading, and writing in an attempt to represent them.
A music attorney can negotiate contracts between a musician and a variety of entities, and even between them. Bands often decide to form partnerships with each other to protect all members of the group. Band managers, agents, and other employees also usually serve on contract. Record deals require contracts that negotiate payment to the band and outline the company’s responsibilities to the band.
Copyright is one of the major areas of interest for a music lawyer. Music created by the band generally belongs to the band, but its use is negotiated by the record company and others. Usually, an artist places restrictions on how the company can use a song or play it, such as on compilation albums. The attorney will work all of these conditions into agreements with the recording industry. He will also negotiate new usage agreements with others who wish to use the song, such as in advertising or film soundtracks.
Lawyers also oversee any trademarks held by the band. These usually protect the band name and logo from unauthorized use or reproduction. The music attorney will be sure to brand these intangibles and oversee the process of any merchandise production featuring them.
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