The entertainment industry is not very
different from other industries, but its product is unique. The creative
process that is behind the manufacturing raises questions about the ownership
and control of the artistic aspect. As we all know, the entertainment industry covers
different facets like film, music, TV, radio, live theaters, special events,
among others. The execution of these variants involves the collaboration of
various businesses working together to achieve a final goal. These businesses
are mainly suppliers of products or services, and to work together drafting of
a legal document is required that stipulates the contribution of each of the
parties involved. This is when an entertainment lawyer is needed.
In Puerto Rico there is not a huge number of
lawyer specialized in this field. One of these specialists is Atty. Hector Quiñones. So, to know a little bit more about his career, the following was
asked:
Gloriana: For how much time have you been
working with entertainment law?
Hector: I have been litigating for more
than 10 years now.
Gloriana: Why did you decide to specialize
in such field and where did you study it?
Hector: I have always been passionate
for the entertainment industry. As I finished my Criminal Justice bachelor’s
degree in the University of the Sacred Heart in San Juan, I started researching
where should I continue my postgraduate studies. That is when a friend of mine
recommended me a law school located in New Hampshire. So, I took the LSAT and
the entire tests necessary to apply to the Franklin Pierce Law Center.
Fortunately I was accepted, graduating in 2001.
Gloriana: In which fields of the
entertainment law have you specialized?
Hector: I have had the opportunity to
deal with almost all aspects involving the entertainment law, but I have been
more focused in copyright, breach on contract, advertising law.
Gloriana: Can you give us any expert
advice, especially for the event industry (filed which I am aimed)?
Hector: Of course! Well, of all
entertainment aspects, the event field is one of the most complete, but also
complex. There are a lot of different types of events, which need the
recruitment of different suppliers. Al these suppliers have to work under legal
contracts to avoid further liabilities. I always recommend honesty among
negotiations and to have contracts as detailed as possible. Everything can be
talked through and negotiable, but is important that everything discussed goes
to a paper too.
All entertainment professionals should always
have an entertainment law advisor: an attorney or counselor who helps in the contracts
drafting and negotiation. Following this advice a lot of legal liabilities can
be avoided.
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