Athletes Lawyer

Keeping You In The Game

Protecting Athletes And Coaches From Exploitation

Many famous global athletes and coaches have turned to the Law Offices of Howard L. Jacobs for legal advice in an assortment of matters, including the unauthorized usage of their names and likenesses. The right of publicity is a right that protects athletes and celebrities against the unauthorized use of their name, image, likeness or even voice for commercial purposes.

Your name, image and likeness (NIL) represent your identity as a unique person who happens to be an elite athlete. They must be protected, and you have the right to control the value of your name and likeness. When they are improperly used by others, we will help you pursue your legal rights – whether that includes enjoining others from using your name and likeness, compensating you for any improper use or a combination of the two.

Common Ways Others Use Your Name And Likeness Without Authorization

We have often helped clients facing these and other issues:

  • Merchandise: Unauthorized use of your name and/or image on merchandise such as t-shirts, hats or other items for sale.
  • Advertising: Using your name, image or similar voice in advertisements or commercials without your permission.
  • Endorsements: Falsely claiming that you endorsed a product or service without your consent.
  • Social media: Creating fake social media accounts using your name and likeness to mislead and scam followers.
  • Video games: Using your likeness or voice in video games without proper authorization or compensation.
  • Fantasy sports: Including your name, image or voice in fantasy sports leagues without obtaining the necessary rights from you.
  • Unauthorized appearances: Someone using your name, image, likeness or voice without your permission in advertisements, merchandise or media.
  • Inaccurate biographies: Publishing a biography about public figures without obtaining permission is legal, but the writer cannot include false or defamatory information to exploit your name and reputation.
  • Personal appearances: Using your name and image for personal appearances, such as speaking engagements, public events, promotional activities or endorsements, without your authorization.

Let Us Protect Your NIL Rights

If you or a client has questions or need advice about NIL issues, contact the Law Offices of Howard L. Jacobs online or call 805-742-8688.