Russells Solicitors is highly adept at advising individual authors and their estates on deals with publishers and literary agencies. It also regularly advises on copyright infringement issues and the implications of third-party generative AI in publishing. On the theatre side, the team supports musical theatre composers on IP infringement claims and other contentious issues, and clients also turn to the firm for representation in film-to-stage adaptation disputes involving licensing and rights issues. Gavin Maude leads the team and is an expert in music law, while Steven Tregear and Henry Priestley both excel at representing clients in litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The pre-eminent entertainment firm. Well known for music and (increasingly) sport, but also very strong in theatre etc. It is s go-to firm in this area.’
‘Henry Priestley is very knowledgeable in this area and an absolute pleasure to work with. A fine mind who will always go the extra yard for his clients.’
‘Having worked with this firm for over 30 years, I can confidently say they are unique in the legal services they provide. Their deep knowledge and consistent guidance across all areas of law—including copyright and intellectual property—have been invaluable to me and my business.'
‘I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Steven Tregear, and I can say without hesitation that he is the cornerstone of my trust in this firm.'
'Steven Tregear is an exceptionally knowledgeable legal advisor who has handled numerous complex disputes on my behalf, including matters involving large global corporations. His expertise, strategic thinking, and professionalism have consistently delivered outstanding results.'
‘Henry Priestly and Alex Cole are exceptionally responsive and quick to act. They both show a strong commercial awareness and pragmatism in getting a deal done, whilst protecting our position robustly.’
Key clients
- Estate of Wilbur Smith
- Andrew Lloyd Webber
- Paul Roberts Productions
- Entertainers Co. Limited
- S2BN Entertainment Corporation
- Bella Mackie
Work highlights
Assisted Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber with securing the summary dismissal of a copyright infringement claim brought against him.
Advised the Estate of Wilbur Smith on all literary publishing matters as well as arrangements relating to the sale of film/TV rights in his works.
Advised S2BN Entertainment Corp on an ongoing UK litigation relating to CoComelon, the most watched children’s YouTube channel in the world.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Gavin Maude
Other key lawyers
Steven Tregear; Henry Priestley; Elizabeth Scandrett; Alex Cole; Sebastian Davey