by Monica Chamness
Staff Writer
A relative newcomer to the Jacksonville Bar Association, the Sports and Entertainment Law Section is once again being led by Carolyn Herman, the inaugural chair of the section at its inception in 1998, who landed the position by accident.
“In signing up for the JBA, they ask if you can think of any other committees that are worthwhile,” said Herman. “Next thing I know, it [a Sports and Entertainment Section] was on the list. I called the president of the organization to see who was heading it up and he said, ‘Apparently, you are.’ ”
Like the other sections of the JBA, Sports and Entertainment exists to serve those attorneys within that area of practice. The group has scheduled a seminar Jan. 23 on topics of interest to their specialized field. Specific issues for discussion have not been decided yet. CLE credit will be offered.
As Jacksonville grows and expands, the choices of leisure activities available, sports and entertainment law stands to flourish as well. The rising popularity of local bands, increased exposure to the film industry and Super Bowl have all contributed to the regional upward trend in the industry and its law-related components.
For Herman, who also teaches entertainment law at the Florida Coastal School of Law, the trend opens a Pandora’s box of ethical concerns.
“With digital online distribution of music and film, the question of infringing on trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property rights is raised,” said Herman. “Even five years ago, I felt the area was moving in that direction. Entertainment law is a composite of the basics of contracts, torts, insurance and intellectual property. What separates it [from other practice areas] is knowing the business and knowing the jargon.”
To keep abreast of current events in the industry, members of the Sports and Entertainment Law Section meet quarterly to talk about relevant issues. Notables such as Todd Roobin, chief of the City’s Film and Television Office, Mike Sullivan, defensive quality control coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and local film producer Bryan Hickox are all part of the section.
“It’s a dynamic area so this is a way to learn about legislation,” said Herman. “Avoiding infringement of intellectual property rights is a major issue now. There are unscrupulous people out there. Some of the best work I’ve done is preventing people from entering into bad contracts. You deal with creative people who have stars in their eyes and no head for business. That’s very challenging.”
The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 26.