When does an artist need a lawyer?

Rife Law knows that as an artist, you’re also an entrepreneur. Let us help look out for your business interests so you can spend more time creating.

Business Formation

Operating as a sole proprietor opens your business to unnecessary liability. Let us help you choose and form a business entity that meets your needs as a creative.

Contract Review

We’ll make sure you get the deal you deserve. It can be overwhelming to decode legalese provided by another party. Let us walk you through the terms of a proposed deal so you know the legal ramifications of what you’re signing.

Contract Drafting

Every artist is uniquely situated. Avoid headaches caused by one-size fits all contract templates and AI generated nonsense. Rife Law will draft a contract specifically tailored to your situation and use real, human brainpower to consider your situation and draft the best terms for you.

Intellectual Property Advice

Let us help you understand the value, nuances, and limitations of copyright and trademark law.

Copyright and Trademark Registration

Together, copyright and trademark law help protect your most valuable assets as an artist—your intangible property.

Consultation and Business Advice

A good attorney is a partner in your business and a trusted advisor. Book time with Miranda to talk through your ideas, get advice on implementation, and assess legal risk.

Sales Agreements ~ Exhibition Contracts ~ Consignment Agreements ~ Work-for-Hire Agreements ~ Independent Contractor Agreements ~ Grant and Funding Agreements ~ Joint Project Agreements ~ Lease Agreements

Sales Agreements ~ Exhibition Contracts ~ Consignment Agreements ~ Work-for-Hire Agreements ~ Independent Contractor Agreements ~ Grant and Funding Agreements ~ Joint Project Agreements ~ Lease Agreements

You’ve heard the old adage — always get it in writing!

Let us draft or review a contract to ensure that your agreement reflects your intent and reserves maximum rights to your intellectual property.

Great business relationships are strengthened by well-drafted contracts ensure clarity and alignment of each party’s expectations.

  • "I've decided to focus on my art as a career but I don't know where to start."

    We can walk you through business entity options to held determine the best choice for you. Then, we’ll help you complete paperwork with the appropriate government agencies to ensure you’re meeting your legal obligations.

  • "Someone wants to license my work for a specific use. How do I make sure I retain the right to my work in other contexts?"

    A good licensing agreement clearly defines appropriate scope and use of a work. Let us draft one or review a proposed agreement so you can retain appropriate rights and get paid!

  • "I want to make a work of art that builds on another artist's work. How can I avoid infringement?"

    Artists often build on existing expression. Let us help you determine if your work could be considered fair use, or if you need to license the right to create a derivative work from the original artist.

  • "I'm an experienced artist, but I'm new to the business side of things. I need advice!"

    Let’s talk it through. Business acumen takes time to develop like any skill and you don’t have to know it all. We’ll help you develop your entrepreneurship by discussing possible strategies, risks, and opportunities to build a sustainable business around your talent.