Entertainment and media law covers the legal areas commonly found in the entertainment industry. Typically, this includes intellectual property issues, but can also involve questions about employment law, contract law, immigration law, advertising law, and international law.

The following are common areas of entertainment and media law:

Communications and Media

Media law refers to the regulation of communications. This area involves constitutional law, broadcasting law, defamation issues, and privacy concerns to name a few. The Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) regulates this area of law.

Cyberspace Law

Like the Internet, cyber law is a new field of law that is constantly changing due to the technology it covers. Cyber law, also known as Internet law, typically covers issues regarding Internet usage, access, privacy, and First Amendment issues like freedom of expression.

Entertainment Law

Entertainment law is an umbrella term and covers all areas of law associated with television, film, music, publishing, advertising, news media, and the Internet. Entertainment law covers a vast area of law and can range from defamation issues to labor disputes.

Gaming Law

Gaming law refers to gambling laws that are regulated by criminal law, constitutional law, contract law, and administrative laws. This area is unique and complex because there are federal and state laws that must be considered and followed.

Sports Law

Sports law covers both amateur and profession sports. Usually, this area of law focuses on labor laws, tort laws, contract law, and antitrust law. Recently, the main controversies have been rooted in college sports and labor disputes.

Television and Radio Broadcasting

Broadcasting laws fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. The FCC’s regulations usually cover guidelines for radio stations and television networks. The FCC may also cover content issues, such as profanity.

Should I Get an Entertainment Lawyer to Help Me?

Yes. Entertainment and media law is complex and does not cover one area of law. Speaking with the proper business lawyer will inform you of your rights in the entertainment industry and protect your interests.