The media and entertainment industry is evolving rapidly, shaped by digital technologies, streaming platforms, global content distribution, and changing consumer demands. At Smith & Partners LP, we provide comprehensive legal services to content creators, broadcasters, record labels, talent managers, production houses, influencers, and digital platforms across the entertainment spectrum.

Our expertise spans contract negotiation, licensing, copyright protection, royalties, talent representation, defamation defense, endorsement deals, and regulatory compliance. We help clients structure deals that protect their intellectual property, maximize revenue, and manage reputational risks in an industry where content rights and image rights are paramount.

One of our partners was part of the legal team that advised on the licensing and syndication of a pan-African television series across multiple platforms in Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana. This included negotiating content acquisition agreements, securing regional broadcast rights, and resolving content censorship issues with local regulators.

We are currently advising an international streaming platform on compliance with the Nigerian Broadcasting Code and related regulations, including local content quotas and data protection obligations under the Nigeria Data Protection Act. Our team also ensures that advertising content and user-generated content conform with both local and international legal standards.

Our firm recently negotiated and drafted a 360° recording and management agreement for a breakout Afrobeats artist, ensuring clear delineation of rights, fair royalty splits, touring obligations, merchandising rights, and termination clauses. We continue to represent the artist on subsequent endorsement and licensing negotiations.

We have advised production companies and independent filmmakers on co-production agreements, intellectual property clearance, location and appearance releases, and distribution rights. Our lawyers also assist with film financing arrangements and regulatory approvals from bodies like the Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

Defamation and reputational risk are also major concerns in the entertainment space. Our litigation team has successfully defended public figures and media houses in high-profile libel actions and has obtained injunctions to prevent the unlawful use or misrepresentation of a client’s image.

Whether it's negotiating a record deal, defending against a takedown notice, or protecting digital content from piracy, Smith & Partners LP stands as a trusted legal partner in the business of entertainment. Our deep understanding of both the creative and commercial sides of the industry ensures our clients are always ahead of the curve.