Los Angeles Entertainment Litigation Attorneys

Protecting Client Rights Throughout Los Angeles County 

In Hollywood, contract disputes and other professional clashes can leave millions of dollars in the balance, not to mention your career. Having a strong attorney on your side is vital if you’re facing a challenge. Robins Cloud LLP has represented clients in complex civil cases for over two decades, and we’re ready to put our experience to work for you, too.

The high stakes here in Hollywood can tempt people and studios to use flexible ethics regarding deal-making and fulfillment of contracts. Artists and creators may have to undergo the painful process of seeing their work stolen and attributed to someone else—not to mention the high financial cost and effects on your prospects.

Our firm believes in fighting for justice, no matter the issue. If you think a Hollywood studio or corporation has wronged you, our Los Angeles entertainment litigation lawyers are here to help.

Are you in need of an entertainment litigation lawyer in Los Angles? Our team is here to help you come up with a plan of action to protect your rights and property. Call Robins Cloud LLP today at (800) 691-2363 or contact us online to start your defense! 

Entertainment Litigation Cases We Handle

Entertainment litigation refers to legal disputes and cases that specifically pertain to the entertainment industry. This branch of law encompasses a wide range of issues related to various forms of entertainment, including film, television, music, theater, sports, gaming, and more.

Entertainment litigation can involve individuals, companies, or organizations within the entertainment industry and often revolves around protecting intellectual property rights, resolving contract disputes, and addressing various legal issues that arise in the world of entertainment. If you’re facing a complex legal challenge to your rights or property, Robins Cloud LLP can help you build a strong case.

We can help with issues such as:

• Defamation: These cases involve false statements that harm a person's or entity's reputation. In the entertainment industry, defamation claims may arise from published articles, social media posts, interviews, or other public statements that negatively impact the reputation of individuals, artists, or companies.
• Idea Theft: Idea theft cases concern allegations of intellectual property theft or the unauthorized use of creative ideas. For example, a screenwriter claiming that a major film studio stole their screenplay concept.
• Licensing Disputes: Licensing disputes often involve disagreements between content owners and those who wish to use their intellectual property. This can include issues related to the licensing terms, royalties, and exclusivity agreements.
• Royalty Disputes: These cases involve disagreements over the distribution of profits and royalties among artists, producers, and other stakeholders. It is common in the music and film industries, among others.
• Trademark and Copyright Infringement: These cases revolve around the unauthorized use of copyrighted or trademarked material, such as music, film, logos, or characters. When someone uses protected content without permission, it can lead to legal action.
• Contract Disputes: Entertainment contracts can be complex, and disputes may arise over terms, obligations, payment structures, and performance issues. Examples include actor agreements, record contracts, and licensing agreements.
• Right of Publicity: These cases involve the unauthorized commercial use of an individual's name, image, or likeness, often by advertisers or media companies without obtaining proper consent.
• Privacy Violations: In the age of social media and paparazzi, privacy violations in the entertainment industry may include cases related to stalking, harassment, or the unauthorized distribution of private photos or videos.
• Antitrust and Competition Law: Some cases involve allegations of anti-competitive practices or monopolistic behavior within the entertainment industry.
• Insurance Claims: Entertainment industry professionals often carry insurance policies to protect against unforeseen circumstances, such as event cancellations, accidents on set, or injuries during live performances. Insurance disputes can arise if an insurer denies a claim.
• Production Disputes: These cases may involve disagreements among cast, crew, and producers during the production of films, TV shows, or live events. Issues can range from safety concerns to disputes over creative direction.
• Music Publishing and Distribution Disputes: These cases concern disputes related to the rights and royalties associated with the production and distribution of music, including issues with music streaming platforms.

Success in an entertainment dispute requires a strategic team and an attorney who won’t back down in the face of pressure. We’ve taken on multinational corporations before and are not afraid to go toe-to-toe with in-house lawyers or entertainment specialists.

We Help Those Who Have Been Wronged

We may live in a golden age of media, but unfortunately, that increases the incentive for less-scrupulous parties to prey on those around them. Money may speak in this town, but it doesn’t provide immunity to justice. If you’re facing significant losses from someone else’s dishonest and illegal conduct, you have the right to recover, and we’re here to help you fight.

Our Los Angeles entertainment litigation lawyers can work with:

• Actors, social media influencers, and other public figures who have been targeted with defamatory, libelous, or slanderous accusations
• Writers, artists, filmmakers, photographers, and musicians whose work has been outright stolen or used without their consent
• Creators of any sort who have not received the royalties they are contractually owed
• Producers and investors who are facing challenges to their rights/ownership of a project

When your career relies on a certain image or creative capacity, it’s essential to protect your rights vigorously. Our team is full of hard fighters ready to get to work if you have a complaint.

FAQs About Entertainment Litigation

Can I sue a streaming platform if my work was distributed without permission?

Yes, if a streaming service distributed your work without the proper rights or licenses, you may have a valid copyright infringement claim. With the explosion of digital content distribution, disputes over rights and royalties involving platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube are increasingly common. In such cases, Los Angeles courts often have jurisdiction, especially if the platform or production entity is based in California.

What is a "profit participation" dispute in entertainment law?

Profit participation disputes occur when an artist, writer, director, or producer believes they haven’t received their fair share of profits from a project. These disputes are common in film and television deals, especially when complex accounting practices—sometimes referred to as “Hollywood accounting”—are involved. Entertainment litigators often need to conduct forensic audits to uncover whether backend compensation was correctly calculated. Such cases are frequently litigated in Los Angeles due to the prevalence of local production companies and talent agreements.

Are verbal agreements enforceable in the entertainment industry?

In some cases, yes. While written contracts are always preferable, verbal agreements can be legally binding in California if certain criteria are met—such as clear terms and evidence of mutual understanding. In Hollywood, many deals start informally, which can later lead to disputes over who owns what or who’s owed compensation. A litigator can assess the enforceability of a verbal agreement and advise on how to protect your interests.

What legal protections do actors and influencers have against unauthorized use of their image?

California law provides strong protections for a person’s name, likeness, and voice under what’s known as the “right of publicity.” If someone uses your image or persona for commercial purposes without permission, you may have grounds to sue. This is especially relevant for actors, celebrities, and social media influencers, who often monetize their identity. Los Angeles courts see a high volume of such cases, particularly as influencer marketing and deepfakes become more widespread.

What happens if I'm sued for defamation in relation to a film or online content?

Defamation suits in the entertainment industry can arise from statements made in scripts, documentaries, interviews, or even social media posts. If you're sued for defamation, an entertainment attorney can help determine whether you have defenses like truth, opinion, or public interest protections under California’s anti-SLAPP laws. These laws are designed to quickly dismiss meritless lawsuits that are filed to silence free speech—an important consideration in creative industries.

What should I do if someone steals my script or creative idea?

If you believe your script or concept has been stolen or used without permission, you should consult an entertainment litigator immediately. While ideas themselves aren’t always protected under copyright law, the expression of those ideas—like a screenplay or treatment—can be. Los Angeles courts often handle these types of claims, known as “idea submission” or “implied contract” disputes, especially if the idea was shared under circumstances that implied confidentiality or expectation of compensation.

Contact Our Los Angeles Entertainment Litigation Lawyer Today

Though it may be less conventional and glamorous than most, Hollywood is still a business—which means dishonest parties are always looking for a way to get their hands on profits and properties that aren’t rightfully theirs. Our entertainment litigation attorneys in Los Angeles are here to represent you if another person or company has mistreated you. Any lawyer can charge a significant fee for talking you through a contract, but it takes an experienced litigator to stand up for you when facing serious legal challenges.

When you choose us as your legal representation, you can expect:

• Expertise and Experience: Our seasoned entertainment litigation lawyers have extensive experience in handling a wide range of cases within the industry. We are well-versed in the unique complexities and nuances of entertainment law, enabling us to provide strategic legal guidance tailored to your specific situation.
• Protecting Your Rights: When you engage our services, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests. Whether you're dealing with defamation, intellectual property disputes, contract issues, or any other legal matter, we have the expertise to advocate on your behalf and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
• Negotiation and Resolution: Our team excels in negotiation and dispute resolution. We are skilled in exploring out-of-court settlements when it's in your best interest, saving you time and resources while securing favorable terms.
• Litigation Experience: In the event litigation becomes necessary, our firm is fully prepared to represent you in court. We have a proven track record of success in litigation, ensuring that your case is in capable hands throughout the legal process.
• Tailored Legal Strategies: We understand that each entertainment litigation case is unique. We take the time to understand your specific objectives and craft a personalized legal strategy to achieve the best results for you. Our approach is strategic, thorough, and client-focused.
• Connections in the Industry: Our extensive network within the entertainment industry can be a valuable asset. We have connections with professionals, experts, and industry insiders who can provide critical insights and support to bolster your case.
• Risk Mitigation: Entertainment litigation can be costly, but our expertise allows us to identify potential risks and navigate your case in a way that minimizes those risks whenever possible.
• Confidentiality and Reputation Management: We understand the importance of protecting your reputation in the entertainment industry. We handle your case with discretion and ensure that sensitive matters are managed appropriately.
• Comprehensive Legal Support: Our services go beyond just litigation. We can assist with contract negotiation, drafting, and review, helping you avoid disputes in the first place. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you're covered at every stage of your entertainment endeavors.
• Peace of Mind: Hiring our entertainment litigation lawyers provides you with peace of mind, knowing that a team of experienced professionals is diligently working to resolve your legal challenges, allowing you to focus on your creative and business endeavors.

Contact Robins Cloud LLP today for a FREE consultation with our entertainment litigation attorney in Los Angeles!