In the fast-paced world of entertainment, media, and sports, the right lawyer can elevate your career—or send it crashing down. Whether you’re a rising star or a seasoned industry veteran, having top-tier legal counsel is crucial. These attorneys don’t just negotiate contracts—they shape the industry, set legal precedents, and influence major deals that define careers.
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1. Skip Brittenham (Ziffren Brittenham LLP)
The Ultimate Deal-Maker
Skip Brittenham has been a Hollywood heavyweight for decades, known for negotiating some of the most complex and high-stakes deals in the industry. With a client list featuring Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, his expertise spans everything from film and television financing to high-profile studio negotiations.
Why He’s a Game-Changer
- Mastermind behind multi-million-dollar studio deals.
- Deeply connected within Hollywood power circles.
- A legal strategist who shapes entertainment law trends.
2. Steven Beer (Lewis Brisbois)
The Entertainment Law Thought Leader
Steven Beer is a name that resonates in film, television, and music law. A National Chair of the Entertainment, Media & Sports Practice at Lewis Brisbois, he represents top-tier clients, from Grammy-winning musicians to independent filmmakers.
Why He’s a Powerhouse
- Specializes in intellectual property rights and licensing.
- Writes extensively on film finance and distribution.
- Co-chairs New York’s SummerStage, the city’s largest free performing arts festival.
3. Bryan Freedman (Freedman + Taitelman LLP)
The Ultimate Hollywood Litigator
Known for his aggressive litigation tactics, Bryan Freedman has handled some of Hollywood’s biggest legal battles. He’s represented Kevin Spacey, Chris Cuomo, and Gabrielle Union, proving he’s the go-to lawyer for high-profile entertainment disputes.
Why He’s Unstoppable
- Expert in defamation, reputation management, and contract disputes.
- A master of media manipulation in high-stakes cases.
- Has a reputation for winning seemingly unwinnable lawsuits.
4. Jason Berger (Lewis Brisbois)
The Music Industry Power Broker
Jason Berger is making waves in the music, television, and digital media industries. His impressive client roster includes independent record labels, tech innovators, and Grammy-winning musicians. He also teaches at Drexel University’s Music Industry Program, shaping future industry leaders.
Why He’s a Legal Heavyweight
- Specializes in music contracts and digital distribution.
- Board member of The Recording Academy’s Philadelphia Chapter.
- Advocate for musicians’ rights and fair industry practices.
5. Matt Cottingham (Lewis Brisbois)
Nashville’s Legal Powerhouse
Matt Cottingham is one of Nashville’s most influential music lawyers. As the Co-Managing Partner of Lewis Brisbois’ Entertainment, Media, & Sports Practice, he represents chart-topping recording artists, record labels, and music publishers.
Why He’s a Key Player
- Named a Billboard Top Music Lawyer in 2022.
- Serves as Board Counsel for the International Entertainment Buyers Association.
- Provides pro bono legal services for artists and musicians.
Conclusion: The Power of the Right Legal Counsel
Navigating the entertainment, media, and sports industries requires more than just talent—you need the right legal powerhouse behind you. These Top 5 Lawyers Who Can Make Or Break Your Career are shaping the future of