The Media & Entertainment Sector in Los Angeles

Michael McGinnis

April 4, 2024

The Media & Entertainment sector in California, particularly in Los Angeles, stands at the forefront of legal innovation and demand. With its rich history in film, television, music, and digital media, the region has become a global hub for entertainment legal services.

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Recent Moves

While still not returned to pre-pandemic levels, 2023 saw a significant amount of associate moves within the entertainment sector. Partner moves saw a 275% increase in moves in 2023, when compared to 2022.

When analysing such moves, it is noticeable that associates within the 2017-2021 class range were the most sought out by law firms in 2023.

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Here are some key trends shaping the landscape:

IP litigation services in demand

Intellectual Property (IP) litigation remains a cornerstone of legal services within the media and entertainment sector. In the digital age, creating and sharing content has changed. Copyright, trademark, and patent issues are more complex now.

Legal firms specializing in IP litigation are in high demand to protect the rights of creators and companies alike.

Corporate teams advising on industry changes

Los Angeles-based corporate legal teams are busy navigating the dynamic shifts within the media landscape. With the rise of streaming platforms and the decline of traditional media models, companies are seeking legal counsel to adapt to these changes strategically.

Whether it's negotiating licensing agreements, handling mergers and acquisitions, or addressing regulatory compliance, corporate lawyers play a pivotal role in shaping the industry's future.

Streaming giants driving legal demand

The dominance of streaming giants like Amazon, Hulu, and Netflix continues to reshape the entertainment industry. These platforms not only produce original content but also engage in complex distribution deals, licensing agreements, and talent contracts. As they expand globally, they rely heavily on legal expertise to navigate various jurisdictions, copyright laws, and content regulations.

Intersection of media and technology

The convergence of media and technology has led to a surge in legal activity. From virtual reality to artificial intelligence, technological advancements are transforming how content is created, distributed, and consumed. Legal professionals with expertise in both media and tech law are in high demand to address issues such as data privacy, cyber security.