Russell Law provides transactional copyright and trademark services.
If you're thinking about adopting or protecting a trademark, it's better to call me sooner rather than later. Why? Because trademarks that make sense from a marketing perspective are often ineligible for federal registration. Marketing advisors want your mark to convey very clearly, to the consumer, exactly what it is you provide. The more descriptive your mark, though, the less likely it is to qualify for federal registration. I can be of greatest assistance when you involve me early in the process to help make sure your mark accomplishes both your marketing and your legal objectives.
If you're already working with an attorney who needs to consult on a copyright or trademark matter, I can provide consultation services. Please suggest they contact me.
I
do not provide patent or litigation services, but when you need such
services I can offer referrals to other firms and practitioners. When appropriate in litigation, I can serve as co-counsel.
Arts and Entertainment
I don't like the term "entertainment law" because it conjures images of inflated egos and arrogance. I have little tolerance for either, so if that's the kind of lawyer you're looking for please consider a large entertainment firm with offices near salt water.
The term "arts law" better describes my practice. My mission is to help artists at all stages of their careers understand and deal effectively with the legal issues that affect them. I believe very strongly that mistakes made early in an artistic career can be more devastating than those made later on.
I encourage artists to think and conduct their businesses proactively, and I prefer working with artists who understand that investing in the advice of counsel prior to major decisionmaking is far more cost effective than trying to clean up the mess after something goes wrong.
Representative clients include independent music publishers, record labels, production companies, design firms and nonprofit organizations; as well as individual artists, writers musicians, bands and ensembles.
Digital Business Law
I work with companies doing business online, assisting with privacy, terms of use, DMCA, anti-spam, data breach, contests and other web-related issues.
I draft and negotiate software and web development agreements, hosting agreements, content licenses and contracts for use with employees and contractors.
General Counsel Services
To me, the most satisfying client-lawyer relationship is one in which our mutual trust and respect has matured into a long-term association.
Often a business client will come to me with a single task, often a trademark or contract matter. Then they'll call me when their next legal issue comes up, and then the next. Over time I become the company's general counsel. These are businesses that aren't large enough to have in-house counsel, but take their legal matters seriously enough to recognize the importance of professional counsel and the benefits of having a go-to lawyer who truly understands and believes in their business. When I can handle the matter myself, I do. When the matter is outside my scope of practice I refer the client to trusted colleagues.
Corporate Training
Education and awareness are the keys to protecting and maximizing the value of your copyright and trademark assets. Russell Law provides customized training for your staff and executives. I personally work with you to develop a program of instruction and materials designed to achieve your specific goals. Russell Law training sessions are known for their clarity, relevance and engaging good humor.