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Category Archives: Entertainment Law

FTC’s Non-Compete Ban: A Shakeup for Media, Entertainment, and Online Industries?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently banned most non-compete agreements, impacting how businesses operate across the board. This is particularly interesting for media, entertainment, and online industries known for their talent mobility and creative collaborations. What’s Changing? Previously, non-compete agreements restricted employees from working for competitors for a certain period after leaving. The FTC’s rule… Continue Reading

From Script to Stage or Screen: Clear Agreements Streamline Entertainment Projects

In the glamorous world of entertainment, the focus is often on creativity, star power, and the end product. However, the backbone of any successful entertainment project isn’t found in the spotlight—it’s in the mundane yet crucial early stage of establishing clear agreements. These agreements are not merely paperwork; they are the foundational elements that ensure… Continue Reading

5 Hard Lessons About the Use of Music Rights in Films No One Will Discuss Openly

5 Hard Lessons About the Use of Music Rights in Films No One Will Discuss Openly

Music can define a film, evoking emotions and enhancing narratives. However, the legal complexities surrounding music rights are a landscape fraught with pitfalls that filmmakers often underestimate. Here’s a deep dive into the hard lessons about using music in films, complete with real-life examples and case law. 1. Music Licensing Can Be Costly Securing the… Continue Reading

Gordon Firemark Appears on Digital Trailblazer Podcast for 2nd time

What a pleasure it was to join Host Leah Rae Getts to talk about the legal side of online business, media, courses, etc. Check out this episode, and let me know in comments or via email if you have questions. Prefer audio? Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-trailblazer-podcast/id1717325062   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2krxAi7r6e2teFmNFoKDG5?si=4ccb1f7022f24eb4 Continue Reading

Navigating the Legal Landscape of Podcasting: A Guide to Disclaimers and Disclosures

Navigating the Legal Landscape of Podcasting: A Guide to Disclaimers and Disclosures

In the ever-evolving world of podcasting, where the lines between content creation and legal obligations often blur, understanding the intricacies of disclaimers and disclosures becomes paramount. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, the content you produce carries with it certain responsibilities—not just to your audience, but also in the eyes of the… Continue Reading

The Battle for Art and Rights – ELU 165

Join Gordon Firemark and Tamara Bennett in episode 165 of the Entertainment Law Update podcast as they provide detailed analysis and commentary on various legal and business news stories. The episode covers a range of cases, from Alec Baldwin’s indictment in the Rust movie shooting to copyright disputes over AI-generated content. Highlights include discussions on… Continue Reading

Don’t fall for these trademark scams

Scams are nothing new for trademark applicants and registrants.  Because the application is a public-record, it’s quite easy for anyone to identify those who’ve recently filed or received office actions and target them. There are two new(ish) scams that have started showing up that are worth warning you about so you don’t wind up a… Continue Reading

New for 2024: Federal Reporting Requirement Affects Most Small Businesses

Navigating the Corporate Transparency Act for Small Businesses and Legal Entities The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is a pivotal piece of legislation that impacts many small businesses with LLC or corporation structures, among others. Enacted as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2021, the CTA aims to enhance transparency and combat… Continue Reading

Gordon Firemark receives Texas Star Award recognizing achievements and contributions to Entertainment Law.

Last week, I attended the UTCLE/Texas Entertainment & Sports Law Association’s 33rd annual Entertainment Law Initiative. On Thursday, I was honored to be recognized as the 2023 recipient of the Texas Entertainment and Sports Law association’s Texas Star Award for achievements in and contributions to the field of Entertainment Law. Better still, I was thrilled… Continue Reading

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