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The Practice of Sports Law

Presented by Brandon Leopoldus

(5,968 Ratings)
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Course Description

Length: 1h 7min    Published: 9/6/2022    
Practicing in the area of sports law requires attorneys to understand a several practice areas and legal issues that sports clients commonly face. The business of professional sports itself is complex and multifaceted. This program will give practitioners an overview of what they need to know before diving into the world of sports law. Viewers will get to know the generalities of sports law, be introduced to the individuals and organizations involved in sports law, and understand how various types of law operates within the industry. It will also cover some key hot-button legal issues and will provide a number of valuable practice tips. Topics covered include: - The business of professional sports - Key labor issues and cases - Antitrust issues - Fan safety - Commissioner powers and duties - Athlete issues
Learning Objectives
* Understand the generalities of sports law practice
* Get to know the individuals and organizations involved in sports law
* Learn about the various types of law operating within the sports industry
Read the course transcript.

Speaker Q&A

Question
Given the ego of individual players, do you spend considerable time dealing with non-law issues?
- LeeT
Answer
It’s not so much about individual players’ egos but rather the level of trust athletes need in order to seek help with certain matters. For example, we handle various business-related issues and educate players and their families about different aspects of business. We also assist in connecting them with service providers for needs ranging from domestic help, like hiring a nanny or chef, to auto brokers and other common services in the sports space. Additionally, we work with many players to help them understand how things operate in professional sports and address unique challenges that public figures face—challenges that athletes and their families may not have experience with due to the distinct nature of the industry. While this does require significant time, it’s beneficial for our business. Every time we refer a professional athlete to a service provider, it builds trust and fosters gratitude from both the player and the provider. This often leads to strong business connections and future referrals back to our firm. It’s also important to remember that most professional athletes' career spans are short. They will spend more time outside the athletic realm than within it. Our goal is to help our athlete clients maximize their time in the spotlight by building solid business connections and making the most of the unique opportunities they have. This way, they can transition to success outside of sports when the time comes. It’s always rewarding to work with clients who were once professional athletes and are now thriving in other areas of their lives, seeing that maturation process pay off significantly.
- Brandon Leopoldus
Question
What percentage of owners have to approve a collective bargaining agreement and the Players association?
- FredK
Answer
The percentage of team owners required to approve a collective bargaining agreement in professional sports leagues typically varies depending on the league’s specific governance rules. For example, a new CBA requires approval by at least three-fourths (75%) of the team owners in the NFL, (24 out of 32 teams). Other leagues have their own voting thresholds: MLB requires 23 out of 30 owners, NBA requires 20 out of 30 owners, NHL requires 21 out of 31 owners, and MLS requires 18 out of 27 owners. On the players’ side, the Players Association typically conducts a vote among its members, and a majority approval (over 50%) is needed to ratify the agreement.
- Brandon Leopoldus

Presented By:

Brandon Leopoldus

10833 Wilshire Boulevard #510, Los Angeles, CA 90024

323.682.0511

brandon@leopoldus.com

Featured Reviews

"Fascinating understanding of professional sports evolution into a platform for athletes other businesses."

   Russell M

"Nice refresher on an esoteric yet very interesting (and wide-ranging) area of law. "

   Jason B

"Great overview and introduction to issues related to athletes and sports."

   Joseph D