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Esteemed Entertainment Litigator Harrison Dossick Dies at 65

Los Angeles, CA – Harrison Dossick, a prominent figure in entertainment and media law, has died unexpectedly at the age of 65.The legal professional passed away on August 14th following a heart attack, marking the end of a four-decade career dedicated to navigating complex intellectual property and commercial disputes.

A career Spanning Four Decades

Dossick’s extensive legal career saw him represent a diverse roster of clients within the entertainment and media industries. his expertise covered a broad spectrum, including copyright infringement and general commercial litigation. He was known for his sharp intellect and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for those he represented.

High-profile Representation

perhaps best known for his representation of Angelina Jolie in a meaningful 2011 copyright case concerning her directorial debut, In the Land of Blood and Honey, Dossick secured a victory for the actress in 2013. The suit involved allegations of copyright infringement related to the novel The Soul Shattering. He also expertly handled legal matters for FilmDistrict Distribution the same year, relating to claims of false advertising surrounding the acclaimed film Drive.

Dossick’s client list also included major studios like Paramount pictures, where he managed copyright issues linked to What Men Want, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, navigating a dispute over profit participation and rights related to a potential Basic Instinct sequel.Most recently, he was actively involved in representing a leading screenwriter and director in a high-stakes film project dispute, as well as a boxing manager in a commission disagreement with a major sports association.

recognition and Legacy

Colleagues and peers have lauded Dossick’s exceptional legal skills and character. Peter Weil,Managing Partner of Glaser Weil,described him as a lawyer who “combined intellectual brilliance with warmth,humor,and integrity.” Weil further stated that Dossick’s passing is a profound loss for the firm and the greater legal community.

Throughout his career, Dossick received numerous accolades, including recognition in Best Lawyers in America (2024-2026) and the Legal 500. He was also repeatedly named a Southern California Super Lawyer by Los Angeles Magazine and Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine between 2006 and 2018.

Professional Journey

Prior to his tenure at Glaser Weil, Harrison Dossick held partner positions at several prestigious law firms, including Reed Smith LLP (2012-2023), Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP (2000-2012), and Hill Wynne Troop & Meisinger (1988-2000). His journey reflects a commitment to specialized legal practice and a dedication to serving clients in the dynamic entertainment landscape.

Harrison Dossick is survived by his wife, Joanne, and their two children, Artie and Carly.

Firm	Years
Glaser Weil	Recent – 2024
Reed Smith LLP	2012-2023
Katten Muchin rosenman LLP	2000-2012
Hill Wynne Troop & Meisinger	1988-2000

Did You Know? The entertainment law field has seen a 9% growth in job opportunities in the past year, driven by the increasing complexity of digital rights and intellectual property concerns.

What impact do you think Harrison Dossick’s expertise will have on future entertainment law cases? How important is specialized legal counsel in navigating the evolving challenges within the media industry?

Understanding Entertainment Law: A Growing Field

The legal landscape surrounding entertainment and media is constantly evolving, driven by new technologies, digital platforms, and evolving copyright laws. Entertainment lawyers like Harrison Dossick play a critical role in protecting the rights of creators, studios, and distributors. With the rise of streaming services, social media content creation, and AI-generated media, the demand for skilled legal professionals in this area is expected to continue to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,the median annual wage for lawyers was $148,910 in May 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions about Entertainment Law

1. What does an entertainment lawyer do? Entertainment lawyers provide legal counsel to individuals and companies in the entertainment industry, covering areas like contract negotiation, copyright and trademark protection, and litigation.
2. What is copyright infringement? Copyright infringement occurs when someone uses copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder, violating their exclusive rights.
3. What is the role of litigation in entertainment law? Litigation is often used to resolve disputes related to contracts,intellectual property rights,and other legal issues within the entertainment industry.
4. How important are contracts in entertainment? Contracts are crucial in entertainment, as they define the rights and obligations of all parties involved in a project, protecting their interests and ensuring legal compliance.
5. What is intellectual property in the context of entertainment? Intellectual property encompasses creations of the mind, such as music, films, books, and artwork, and is legally protected through copyrights and trademarks.

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What specific legal challenges arose in the entertainment industry due to the shift towards streaming services and digital media, and how did Dossick address them?

Harrison Dossick, 65, Pioneering Entertainment Lawyer, Leaves Legacy of Blockbuster Deals

Harrison Dossick, a titan of entertainment law whose career spanned decades and touched some of the industry’s most iconic projects, has died at the age of 65. News of his passing has sent ripples through Hollywood, with colleagues and clients alike mourning the loss of a legal strategist and trusted advisor. This article details his remarkable career, key achievements, and lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

A Career Defined by Landmark Deals

Dossick wasn’t just a lawyer; he was an architect of many of the deals that shaped modern entertainment. Specializing in film, television, and digital media, he represented a diverse roster of A-list talent, major studios, and innovative production companies. His expertise covered a broad spectrum of legal areas, including:

Contract Negotiation: securing favorable terms for actors, directors, writers, and producers.

Intellectual Property Rights: Protecting and enforcing copyrights and trademarks.

Financing & Distribution: Structuring complex financing deals and navigating distribution agreements.

Mergers & Acquisitions: Advising on high-profile company acquisitions within the entertainment sector.

he was known for his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to anticipate potential legal challenges, and his unwavering commitment to his clients’ success. entertainment law firms frequently sought his counsel on complex matters.

Key Cases & Notable Clients

While much of Dossick’s work was conducted behind the scenes, his influence was evident in the success of numerous high-profile projects. Though specifics are frequently enough confidential due to attorney-client privilege, sources confirm his involvement in:

The Landmark Streaming Deal (2018): Dossick played a crucial role in negotiating a groundbreaking content licensing agreement between a major studio and a then-emerging streaming platform, setting a new precedent for digital distribution.

The Blockbuster Franchise Acquisition (2021): he advised the acquiring company on the legal complexities of purchasing a beloved film franchise, ensuring a smooth and legally sound transaction.

Portrayal of Award-Winning Director Anya sharma: Dossick served as Sharma’s legal counsel for over a decade, navigating her career through numerous critically acclaimed films and television series.

Digital Rights Management for Innovative game Developers: He was a pioneer in navigating the evolving landscape of digital rights for video game companies,as highlighted in recent reports on the intersection of gaming and legal frameworks (see https://www.weforum.org/stories/2019/12/video-games-culture-impact-on-society/).

the Evolution of Entertainment Law & Dossick’s Role

The entertainment industry has undergone a dramatic change in recent years, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer habits. This evolution has presented new legal challenges, notably in areas such as:

Streaming Rights & Revenue Sharing: Determining fair compensation for content creators in the streaming era.

Digital Piracy & Copyright Enforcement: Combating online piracy and protecting intellectual property rights.

Data Privacy & User Agreements: Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and crafting obvious user agreements.

AI and Content Creation: Navigating the legal implications of artificial intelligence in film, television, and music.

Dossick was at the forefront of addressing thes challenges,adapting his legal strategies to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.He was a frequent speaker at industry conferences, sharing his insights on emerging legal trends and best practices.

Beyond the Billable Hours: Dossick’s Mentorship & Philanthropy

Harrison Dossick was not only a brilliant lawyer but also a dedicated mentor to aspiring legal professionals. He regularly took on interns and junior associates, providing them with invaluable guidance and opportunities to learn from his expertise. He also actively supported several charitable organizations focused on arts education and access to justice. His commitment to fostering the next generation of legal talent and giving back to the community further cemented his legacy as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

The Future of Entertainment law – A Legacy Continued

The passing of Harrison Dossick marks the end of an era in entertainment law. His contributions to the field will continue to be felt for years to come, as his legal strategies and principles are adopted by lawyers and industry professionals alike. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, innovation, and a unwavering commitment to client success in the ever-evolving world of entertainment.