How to become an entertainment attorney

Entertainment law is a dynamic field focusing on the legal aspects of the entertainment industry.

Steps to Becoming an Entertainment Attorney

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree is the first step.
2. LSAT: Pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
3. Apply to Law School: Apply and get accepted.
4. Graduate Law Degree: A graduate law degree (JD or LLM) is essential.
5. Pass the Bar Exam: Pass the bar exam in the state where you intend to practice.

After passing the bar, you can seek employment at a law firm.

Entertainment law is a dynamic field focusing on the legal aspects of the entertainment industry.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree is the first step. While there’s no specific “pre-law” major required, focusing on subjects like business, communications, journalism, or even the arts can provide a solid foundation. Strong writing and analytical skills are crucial.
2. LSAT: Pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). This standardized test assesses your reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical reasoning skills. Preparation is key; consider taking LSAT prep courses or utilizing study materials.
3. Apply to Law School: Apply and get accepted. Research law schools with strong entertainment law programs or those located in major entertainment hubs like Los Angeles, New York, or Nashville. Your LSAT score, GPA, personal statement, and letters of recommendation will all be considered.
4. Graduate Law Degree: A graduate law degree (JD or LLM) is essential. A Juris Doctor (JD) is the standard law degree in the US. Some law schools offer specialized courses or concentrations in entertainment law. An LLM (Master of Laws) in Entertainment Law is a postgraduate degree that provides more specialized knowledge, but it’s generally pursued after obtaining a JD.
5. Pass the Bar Exam: Pass the bar exam in the state where you intend to practice. This exam tests your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply it. Bar preparation courses are highly recommended.

After passing the bar, you can seek employment at a law firm.

Gaining Experience and Networking

Landing a job in entertainment law often requires more than just a law degree. Here are some ways to gain experience and build your network:

• Internships: Internships at entertainment law firms, production companies, record labels, or talent agencies are invaluable. They provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
• Law School Clinics: Many law schools offer clinics that allow students to work on real-world legal cases, often in areas related to entertainment law.
• Networking: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with entertainment lawyers on LinkedIn. Building relationships is crucial for finding job opportunities.
• Volunteer Work: Volunteering legal services to artists or arts organizations can provide experience and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Skills for Success

Beyond legal knowledge, certain skills are essential for success as an entertainment attorney:

• Strong Negotiation Skills: Entertainment law often involves negotiating contracts and agreements.
• Excellent Communication Skills: You need to be able to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and opposing counsel.
• Industry Knowledge: Staying up-to-date on trends and developments in the entertainment industry is crucial.
• Attention to Detail: Entertainment law often involves complex contracts and intellectual property issues, requiring meticulous attention to detail.
• Problem-Solving Skills: You need to be able to identify and solve legal problems creatively and effectively.

Areas of Specialization

Entertainment law is a broad field with various areas of specialization, including:

• Music Law: Contracts for artists, publishing agreements, licensing, and copyright issues.
• Film and Television Law: Production agreements, distribution agreements, talent agreements, and intellectual property rights.
• Sports Law: Contracts for athletes, endorsement deals, and representation of sports organizations.
• Intellectual Property Law: Copyright, trademark, and patent law as they relate to the entertainment industry.
• Digital Media Law: Legal issues related to online content, social media, and digital distribution.

Choosing an area of specialization can help you focus your career and develop expertise in a specific area of the entertainment industry. Good luck!