In the music industry, talent gets attention—but contracts get signed. And when it comes time to sign, pitch, publish, license, or sell your work, there’s one person you absolutely want in your corner: an entertainment attorney.
Whether you’re a songwriter, artist, producer, or manager, an entertainment lawyer isn’t just a formality—they’re your first line of defense against bad deals, industry traps, and creative exploitation. This guide will walk you through what entertainment attorneys do, when you need one, how they’re paid, and how to find one that truly understands your career path.
🎶 What Is an Entertainment Attorney?
An entertainment attorney is a licensed legal professional who specializes in contracts, negotiations, rights management, and dispute resolution within the music, film, TV, and broader creative industries. In music specifically, they serve as both protector and strategist—ensuring your intellectual property is respected and your business dealings are sound.
Their job isn’t just legal—it’s personal. A great music attorney helps you own what you create, get fairly paid for it, and retain the freedom to grow.
🛠️ What Do Music Attorneys Handle?
Here are the most common responsibilities entertainment lawyers manage for musicians and songwriters:
✅ Contract Review & Negotiation
• Record deals
• Publishing agreements
• Producer and co-writer agreements
• Management and booking contracts
• Sync licensing deals (film, TV, commercials)
✅ Intellectual Property Protection
• Copyright registration
• Trademark filing (e.g., band names, logos)
• Royalties and rights monitoring
• Dispute resolution and cease-and-desist actions
✅ Business Formation & Strategy
• LLC or corporation setup for your music career
• Touring and merch agreements
• Distribution and licensing contracts
• International rights management
If you’re serious about your career, you’ll eventually hit a point where you need an entertainment attorney—not just to sign off on a deal, but to help you understand what you’re signing and what you’re giving away.
📅 When Do You Need an Entertainment Attorney?
Many artists wait too long to bring legal help into the picture—and it costs them.
Here are some signs you need an attorney:
• You’re offered a contract (record, publishing, sync, management)
• You’re planning to release music commercially
• You’re co-writing songs and need to protect your share
• You’re generating income and want to protect your assets
• You’re considering signing with a PRO, distributor, or aggregator
• You’re entering a licensing deal for film/TV
Pro tip: Don’t use a general lawyer. Entertainment law is a specialized field. It’s not about courtroom litigation—it’s about rights, royalties, and long-term creative control.
💵 How Do Entertainment Lawyers Get Paid?
Music attorneys are usually paid in one of four ways:
1. Hourly Rate – $200–$600+ per hour depending on experience.
2. Flat Fee – For specific services (e.g., contract review).
3. Percentage – Often 5% of a deal’s value (commonly used in publishing or label deals).
4. Retainer – Ongoing monthly fee for continuous legal support.
For new or indie artists, many attorneys offer flexible rates or flat-fee reviews. If someone demands a massive upfront payment without clarity—walk away.
🎯 How to Find the Right Entertainment Attorney
The best entertainment attorneys aren’t just lawyers—they’re industry insiders who understand music, rights, and the business of art. Look for someone who has:
• Experience in music contracts, publishing, and royalties
• A track record working with artists in your genre or market
• Good communication and responsiveness
• A focus on protecting your interests, not closing fast deals
Ways to find great attorneys:
• Referrals from trusted artists, managers, or producers
• Music industry events or panels
• Associations like The Recording Academy, Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), or California Lawyers for the Arts
• Local music business schools or law school programs
Always research credentials, request a consultation, and check client reviews.
🚫 Legal Red Flags to Watch Out For
• Lawyers who double as your manager or agent (conflict of interest)
• Attorneys who push you to sign without explaining terms
• Legal language that’s vague or overly one-sided
• Contracts without termination clauses or royalty definitions
• No written agreement with your attorney outlining their scope and fees
🧠 Final Thoughts: A Song Is Forever—So Protect It
Every song you write is intellectual property—a business asset, a potential paycheck, and a personal creation. And in today’s fast-moving music industry, the right legal advice can mean the difference between owning your future or watching someone else profit from it.
Don’t wait until the contract’s on the table. Build a relationship with an attorney before you need them. Think of them as part of your team—just like a producer, manager, or co-writer.
