An Ohio Law Firm With A National Reach In Sports And Entertainment Law
Markovits, Stock & DeMarco, LLC, is highly skilled at representing clients in individual and class action litigation involving sports and entertainment law.
We represent a wide spectrum of clients, including athletes, entertainers, schools, colleges and entertainment companies. These niche areas of practice require incredibly knowledgeable attorneys who have a history of success. In our decades of combined experience, we have achieved countless favorable outcomes for our clients, including multimillion-dollar settlements and judgments.
What Types Of Cases Do We Accept?
Markovits, Stock & DeMarco, LLC, has handled a wide variety of complex and straightforward cases in these practice areas. Some of the most common sports law cases we handle include:
- Eligibility requirements for athletes: We address eligibility disputes that can affect participation in sports, often involving complex regulatory frameworks.
- Problems arising from high school and college athletic associations: Our firm navigates the intricate rules and policies governing student-athletes.
- NCAA student-athlete pay disputes, including name, image and likeness (NIL) issues: We advocate for fair compensation and rights of student-athletes under evolving NIL laws.
- Sports injuries due to defective equipment: We pursue claims for athletes injured by faulty gear, seeking justice and compensation.
- Contract disputes: We sort out the intricacies of sports contracts and advise on the resolution of disputes.
- Trademark and copyright violations: We protect the intellectual property rights of athletes and sports entities against unauthorized use and infringement.
Many of our entertainment law cases involve:
- Contract disputes: We handle disputes over terms and performance in contracts for artists and entertainers.
- Trademark and copyright violations: Our firm defends creative works against unauthorized use, ensuring our clients’ rights are protected.
- Antitrust litigation: We tackle cases involving unfair competition and monopolistic practices in the entertainment industry.
- Right of publicity: We safeguard individuals’ rights to control the commercial use of their identity.
- Class actions over canceled concerts and events: We represent groups seeking compensation for losses from event cancellations.
We provide free initial consultations at our Cincinnati office, by phone or by videoconference. Speak to one of our team members to discuss your case and learn how Markovits, Stock & DeMarco, LLC, can assist you.
Effectively Resolving Contract Disputes
Contracts are the glue that holds together the sports and entertainment industries. However, even the most carefully drafted contract can face a dispute. We represent plaintiffs involved in contract disputes, whether this involves enforcing or disputing the terms of a contract.
Ohio Sports And Entertainment Law FAQs
Athletes, entertainers, influencers and companies involved in sports and entertainment come to us with similar questions about protecting their rights. Our lawyer has answered these questions to help you better understand your legal options.
Do I need an attorney to review an NIL contract in Ohio?
Yes, although in Ohio it is not legally required to hire an attorney, it is wise to have one. A NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) agreement can contain complex provisions regarding exclusivity, compensation, intellectual property rights and contract duration. An unclear agreement can create conflicts that may affect you later.
A lawyer can help ensure your contract agreement complies with Ohio law and applicable institutional rules. Moreover, they can help negotiate more favorable compensation terms and review tax implications. We can help you carefully review NIL contracts and negotiate favorable terms.
What is the role of morality clauses in endorsement deals?
Morals clauses are designed to protect a sponsor’s reputation by allowing the company to suspend or terminate an agreement if the athlete, entertainer or influencer engages in conduct that could harm their brand. Common reasons that may force the company to end the contract include:
- Criminal activities
- Public scandals
- Offensive public statements
Morality clauses, if drafted too broadly, can pose substantial risks to athletes and entertainers. Having an experienced lawyer can help negotiate terms in a clearer language that defines prohibited conduct more specifically. As an entertainer or athlete, you may also seek reciprocal morality clauses that allow you to end the relationship if the sponsoring company becomes the subject of public controversy.
Can you sue the school or athletic association over an eligibility decision?
Yes, you can sue over an eligibility decision. However, you must provide evidence of arbitrariness, fraud or inconsistency with the organization’s own rules. Before filing a lawsuit, you must exhaust all available internal appeals and review procedures. Failure to follow these administrative processes can significantly weaken your case.
Our attorney can evaluate the facts surrounding your eligibility dispute and guide you through available legal options.
What should I do if a brand does not pay me for an endorsement?
If a brand fails to pay you for completed endorsement services, that is a breach of contract. You should act quickly to preserve all relevant evidence such as copies of the signed agreement, invoices, payment schedules, communications with the brand and proof that you fulfilled all required deliverables.
Your lawyer can guide you on engaging in informal remedies to resolve the issue. However, if the informal approach fails, you can send a demand letter before pursuing further legal action. Our attorney can help you pursue payment when brands fail to honor their obligations.
Get Your Free Sports Or Entertainment Law Consultation Today
Based in Ohio, we serve clients nationwide. You can schedule a free initial consultation with Markovits, Stock & DeMarco, LLC, to receive our knowledgeable counsel. Call toll-free at 855-843-5442 or send our law firm an email today.