Sports Law

The legal landscape of the sports industry has seen many changes in recent years, particularly at the amateur and collegiate levels. New laws, regulations, and rules are creating exciting opportunities for athletes, however, the speed at which they are evolving creates new challenges.

At Amundsen Davis, we help athletes nationwide navigate the complex issues that arise at every stage of their careers. We understand that great teams are required for success on and off the field, so we work in collaboration with players and their advisors to identify opportunities while protecting best interests.

We offer tailored advice and representation in the following areas:

Name, Image, and Likeness Management

The present name, image, and likeness (NIL) landscape is difficult to navigate on account of a patchwork of state laws and differing rules set forth by various sports associations. Our deep understanding of regulatory nuances by state, conference, and level of play ensure that our clients can maximize their full NIL potential. Through education, guidance, and counsel around contracts, money, agent representation, and more, we help athletes from the professional level all the way down to high school leverage opportunities to build their personal brands while minimizing risk.

Professional Athletes

With significant experience working with professional athletes, we offer comprehensive counsel tailored to every stage of an athlete’s career—from college to the professional arena and beyond. For college athletes transitioning to professional sports, we provide guidance on negotiating agent agreements, endorsement deals, and managing the transition. For veteran professional athletes, we safeguard your legal and business interests, managing endorsement contract negotiations, intellectual property rights, personal brand development, private investment due diligence, and beyond. When it’s time to transition to the next chapter, we assist in navigating life after sports through strategic estate planning, business ventures, and legacy-building initiatives, empowering you to thrive on and off the field.

Intellectual Property Protection for Athletes

Intellectual property (IP), such as trademarks, copyright, and licensing, play a central role in sports by allowing athletes, teams, and organizations to cultivate and capitalize on a recognizable brand. We counsel clients on personal branding and IP protection to safeguard their commercial interests.

Sports Contract Analysis and Negotiation

Contracts are a critical element for any business transaction. From endorsement deals to sports agent agreements to real estate investment opportunities, we can skillfully review and negotiate the wide variety of contracts athletes are likely to encounter. Our due diligence analyzes the potential short- and long-term outcomes and consequences of each deal and we put our clients’ personal interests first.

Future Planning for Athletes

Whether an athletic career ends at the collegiate level or in retirement from a professional league, having the skills and support to navigate the next steps in your life is not just empowering—it is critical to the game plan. We advise clients as they advance through their athletic careers and even as they begin a new chapter off the field. We provide comprehensive, tailored representation on estate planning and administration, wealth management, and asset protection to ensure long-term success.