We were started in 1974 by lawyers and artists to respond to the legal needs of the California arts community. Programs and services are designed to help artists understand and apply legal concepts for their benefit. A minimal charge is assessed for a half-hour consultation. This fee may be reduced or waived based on the client's financial circumstances. Arts Arbitration and Mediation Services, established as a national model program in 1980, assists in solving disputes outside of court.
Costs depend on the amount in controversy.
We offer workshops, seminars and conferences for artists of all disciplines, attorneys and others interested in art law. Organizations and schools can request legal experts on subjects ranging from libel to sales tax through the Speaker's Bureau. We publish and distribute a series of low-cost art law guides designed for practical reading. Current titles include The Art of Deduction , on state and federal income tax for artists, Legislative Masterpieces on California arts legislation and Contracts for the Visual Artist. Our bimonthly newsletter features articles about current legal issues, book reviews and a calendar of events.