Mark Jaffe is a lawyer for
artists, authors, and creative companies
California and New York
What I Do For You and With You
Artists, Authors, and Creators
My clients include songwriters, musicians, authors, and other creative professionals. I negotiate their contracts, secure their rights, and make sure they understand everything they need to know.
5 Bridges Law is about building bridges between people, and most of my clients are content to never see a courtroom. But when necessary, I've litigated for clients and fought for their rights.
Photo: Manhattan Bridge in forefront
Termination Rights
The U.S. Copyright Act allows authors or artists to get their copyrights back, even if a contract says the copyrights were assigned for eternity. We call these termination rights, because the authors, or their heirs, are terminating the copyright transfer. Talk to me about how to get your copyrights back 35 years after you've assigned them, under 17 U.S.C. 203.
Photo: Bay Bridge (San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge)
Creative Companies
I represent startups and other companies with unique, creative visions, in California and New York.
- Membership and ownership agreements
- Service contracts
- Employment and independent contractor counseling
- Trademark strategy
- Regulatory compliance
Photo: Brooklyn Bridge
About Mark J
My legal practice is inspired and informed by my previous career in the record industry, securing licensing and distribution deals. Since joining the New York Bar in 2007, I have been consistent in my goals: helping people and companies becoming more successful in their enterprises while remaining true to their principles and artistic vision. I have become recognized as an authority on copyright law, regularly quoted in news outlets.
I now live in the East Bay, California, with my wife, son, and two little maniac dogs.
Photo: Golden Gate Bridge in background