Some history : I have been involved with entertainment law issues for over 10 years now. The interest started when I was asked to represent a young filmmaker embroiled in litigation over an MTV project with her former boss and "producer" (who had advanced some money for film). Through the trials and tribulations of litigation, I developed a keen awareness of the legal issues within the entertainment industry.

During my career, I have consulted and represented producers, event organizers, musicians, writers, film directors, actors, models, performers and other artists. I have not only drafted many legal documents, but have also seen how the issues play out in Court (which is the more critical stage).

I have a particular interest in music and have assisted several bands and recording artists. I was involved with production of several concerts in the LA area, and a Brazilian-American-Russian film project Sonhos de Peixe, which won the Prix Regards Jeune at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival (congratulations to director/writer Kirill Mikhanovsky!). Also, I am pleased to be working with the well-known Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama.

I am available to to assist you at any stage of your entertainment career, whether you are just starting out or have more serious legal issues (such as disputes or litigation).

Sample Inter-Band Partnership Agreement
This Agreement creates a partnership between band members in the operation of the band. Covers: (1) name & logos, (2) term, (3) warranties & indemnity, (4) services, (5) capital accounts, (6) profits & losses, (7) publishing and ownership of compositions, (8) books, records and bank accounts, (9) time and salaries, (10) admission of new band members and withdrawal or retirement of old members, (11) meetings & voting, (12) dispute resolution and much more!

Every music band should have a written agreement, or face inevitable disputes that will result in the band's premature break-up.

$39.99

Sample Booking/Performance Agreement
This Agreement is used to protect your rights in booking gigs or scheduling performances. Covers: (1) dates, times & locations, (2) content & scope of performance, and breaks, (3) compensation, promotion/merchandise rights, and perks (e.g. accomodations), (4) permits, insurance, security, and sound/lighting/set-up, (5) cancellations, termination and breach, (6) warranties & indemnity, (7) dispute resolution, and much more! Not the standard boilerplate.

Whether you are hiring a musician/artist/talent, or you are the one being hired to perform, a Booking Agreement is necessary to protect both sides!

Sample Artist-Agent (Non-Exclusive) Agreement
This Agreement creates a non-exclusive agency between the artist and his/her promoter or agent. Covers: (1) sales, (2) comissions, (3) licensing, (4) bookings of performances & artist approval, (5) agent's duties & obligations, (6) promotion & expenses, (7) copyright & moral rights to remain with artist, (8) duration & termination, and much more!

Ready to hire a personal agent or promoter? Make sure your rights are protected and you don't get ripped off!

Sample Recording Agreement
This Agreement covers the relationship between the artist and any recording, production or distribution company. Covers: (1) production of master, costs and scope of artist contribution, (2) artistic control, (3) title & BMI membership, (4) completion & release, (5) additional musicians, (6) assignment of rights & re-purchase option, (7) copyright & distribution, (8) royalties & compensation, (9) non-circumvention of rights/obligations, (9) promotional performances, (10) conditions subsequent, (10) dispute resolution, and much more!

Ready to record? Make sure you keep artistic control and your music rights, and don't get stuck with "costs and expenses"!

$39.99

Sample Work for Hire Agreement
This is an engagement letter and Agreement, which creates an independent contractor relationship between the hiring artist and the musician/talent hired to perform specified songs, music or other things. Covers: (1) scope of work or services to be performed, (2) dates & locations, (3) delivery of satisfactory work, (4) compensation, (5) independent contractor status, (6) work for hire status, (7) assignment of copyrights, proprietary & other intellectual property rights, (8) waiver of moral rights, (9) use of name, image, likeness & biography, (10) warranties & indemnity, (11) dispute resolution, and much more!

If you hire singers/musicians to perform your songs/music, make sure you protect your rights when your song becomes a hit!

"I was reluctant to use an 'internet lawyer' ... but I tried this and was very happy to find Dimitry, who helped me immensely with several business and legal issues. I found him to be very knowledgeable, experienced, and results-oriented. I highly recommend Dimitry to everyone!"
-- Joyce (San Diego, CA)

"Dimitry helped me with many business issues and problems, freeing me from worrying about legal matters and allowing me to concentrate on making my business successful. I wish everyone had a trusted advisior like Dimitry, and I wish I had found him sooner."
-- Mike (Los Angeles, CA)

This testimonial or endorsement does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.