What is a sports lawyer?

Sports lawyers deal with sports-related legal matters that affect individuals and clubs in the sports industry. These lawyers provide advice and representation on disputes, hearings and appeals, contracts, defamation, discrimination and negotiation.

Expert sports lawyers are experienced at identifying and preventing issues that can arise, and will work closely with their clients to ensure they are legally compliant. Sports lawyers offer services that expand into competition law, employment and labour law, contract law, intellectual property, tort law and criminal law. For example, employment and labour law issues can arise if a sports employment contract s challenged. When a sports lawyer is consulted, they will interpret and apply the law to your situation, and make sure you are fully informed of your rights and obligations.

What can a sports lawyer do for me?

Generally, sports lawyers provide cost-effective legal advice. If you are an amateur or professional athlete, it is recommended that you consult a sports lawyer who will determine if your contract is fair and in your best interest. Moreover, the sports industry is subject to local, state, federal and international laws. Sports lawyers are trained to interpret and apply these laws to your circumstance and explain the law in a manner that you can understand. Sports lawyers should be the first point of contact if you are in the sports industry, as they will supply you with the right legal documents and keep you updated on changes that should be made.

5 tips when hiring a sports lawyer

Engaging with a sports lawyer can be overwhelming as there are many lawyers to choose from. It is recommended you consider these tips before making a decision:

1. Find a qualified lawyer that suits your needs. Experience and qualifications prove the lawyer recognises and understands industry specific laws and regulations that must be considered.
2. Check to see if they are accountable and transparent. Look at reviews and recommendations. Also, find a lawyer who is compatible with your budget as well. Ask if the first consultation is free, and whether there are fixed fees, packages or flexible payment options that can be tailored to your needs.
3. Consider more than one lawyer before making a decision. It is important you find someone who has the skills and is willing to work hard on your behalf.
4. Determine the type of relationship you want with your lawyer. Sports lawyers will often do repeat work for clients and a good relationship may reduce costs and improve turnaround time.
5. Read the retainer your lawyer provides. It will inform you of the obligations held by both you and your lawyer, as well as costs that are involved.