Question 1

What does 'Outside Counsel' actually mean?

Accepted Answer

It means you have a general counsel relationship without paying a full-time salary. You get ongoing legal support across business formation, contracts, IP, and compliance from one attorney who knows your business. Instead of hiring different lawyers for different issues, you have one embedded legal partner who moves at your speed.

Question 2

How is this different from hiring a traditional law firm?

Accepted Answer

Traditional firms bill hourly and treat you like a transaction. We work on fixed monthly retainers with defined hours and transparent pricing. You know exactly what you're paying each month, and we're incentivized to be efficient rather than drag things out.

Question 3

What does 'AI-native' mean for my legal work?

Accepted Answer

AI handles research and drafting, the tasks traditional firms assign to junior associates. Every output is reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney before it reaches you. The result: faster turnarounds, lower cost, and more time for your attorney to focus on strategy and negotiation.

Question 4

Is my information safe when AI is involved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. No client data trains AI models. We maintain the same privilege protections and ethical obligations as any law firm. Our use of AI does not change your rights or our duties under the rules of professional conduct.

Question 5

Who is Outside Counsel right for?

Accepted Answer

Athletes managing multiple ventures. Creators building media companies. Gaming operators navigating compliance. Hospitality entrepreneurs scaling across markets. Anyone who needs consistent legal support across different projects but doesn't want to hire in-house or pay traditional hourly rates.

Question 6

What if I only need help with one specific thing?

Accepted Answer

We offer project-based pricing for single engagements like trademark filings, contract reviews, and business formations. But if you anticipate needing ongoing support, a retainer is almost always more cost-effective than paying project rates every time something comes up.

Question 7

How quickly can you start working with me?

Accepted Answer

Book a consultation. If it's a fit, you're onboarded within 48 hours: engagement letter signed, retainer invoiced, and you're in the system. From there, urgent matters are handled immediately.

Question 8

What is the NCAA House settlement?

Accepted Answer

House v. NCAA is a landmark antitrust settlement that establishes a revenue-sharing framework between schools and athletes. For the first time, NCAA institutions can directly pay athletes a share of media rights, ticket revenue, and other institutional income. This fundamentally changes the economics of college athletics.

Question 9

Do I need a lawyer to review my revenue share agreement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. These are complex financial agreements that determine how much you earn, when you get paid, what you give up, and what happens if you transfer. Schools are presenting these as standard forms, but the terms vary significantly and many contain provisions that limit your future options. An attorney review costs a fraction of what a bad deal costs you over four years.

Question 10

What should I look for in a revenue share deal?

Accepted Answer

Payment structure and timing, roster guarantees and what happens if you're cut, how compensation changes if you transfer, exclusivity provisions that affect your other NIL deals, clawback clauses, and dispute resolution. Every term affects your earning potential and flexibility.

Question 11

How does revenue sharing affect my existing NIL deals?

Accepted Answer

Some revenue share agreements include exclusivity provisions or restrictions that conflict with existing NIL contracts. We review both your institutional deal and your third-party NIL deals together to identify conflicts and negotiate terms that protect your full earning potential.

Question 12

What are roster guarantees and why do they matter?

Accepted Answer

A roster guarantee means the school commits to keeping you on the roster for a defined period. Without one, you could sign a revenue share deal, lose your spot, and lose your compensation. We negotiate guaranteed terms so your deal has real financial security behind it.

Question 13

What happens to my revenue share if I enter the transfer portal?

Accepted Answer

It depends entirely on the agreement you signed. Some deals terminate immediately upon transfer. Others prorate compensation. Some include clawback provisions that require you to repay money. Understanding these terms before you sign is critical, especially if transfer is even a remote possibility.

Question 14

Can my parents or family member review the deal instead of a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

They can read it, but these agreements involve complex contract law, antitrust implications, and financial structures that require legal training to evaluate. The schools have teams of lawyers drafting these agreements. You should have a lawyer reviewing them.

Question 15

How much does a revenue share deal review cost?

Accepted Answer

We offer fixed-fee deal reviews so you know exactly what you're paying upfront. The cost depends on complexity, but it's a fraction of the compensation at stake in a multi-year revenue share agreement.

Question 16

I have multiple NIL deals. Do I need a lawyer for each one?

Accepted Answer

You need one lawyer who understands the full picture. Each deal affects the others through exclusivity clauses, territory restrictions, and compensation structures. We review all your deals together and make sure one agreement doesn't kill opportunities in another.

Question 17

What should I look for in an NIL contract?

Accepted Answer

Exclusivity terms, usage rights (can they use your image forever or just during the contract?), compensation structure (flat fee, revenue share, performance bonuses?), termination clauses, and dispute resolution. Most athletes sign without reading these sections.

Question 18

Someone is impersonating me online or selling fake merch with my name.

Accepted Answer

We file DMCA takedowns, cease-and-desist letters, and trademark infringement actions. Speed matters because the longer fake accounts or unauthorized products stay up, the more damage to your brand and revenue.

Question 19

Should I trademark my name or personal brand?

Accepted Answer

If you're making money from it, yes. Federal trademark protection prevents copycats, increases your brand's value, and gives you legal leverage. Athletes who build recognizable brands without trademark protection lose money and opportunities.

Question 20

Can you help with retired player benefits and disability claims?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Through Athlete Alumni Advantage, we help retired players navigate disability benefits, medical coverage, and pension claims. Many former players don't realize what they're entitled to or struggle with the application process.

Question 21

I'm a content creator. Do I really need a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Once you're monetizing, yes. Brand deals contain hidden traps: exclusivity clauses that block future opportunities, usage rights that let companies exploit your content indefinitely, and payment terms that favor the brand. We negotiate deals that protect your upside.

Question 22

Someone copied my content. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

We file DMCA takedowns for copyright infringement and cease-and-desist letters for impersonation. If it's persistent or causing significant revenue loss, we pursue trademark infringement claims. Acting fast prevents the damage from compounding.

Question 23

What's the difference between copyright and trademark?

Accepted Answer

Copyright protects your specific content (videos, music, writing). Trademark protects your brand identity (channel name, logo, catchphrase). You automatically own copyright when you create. Trademark requires federal registration. Both are critical for a recognizable brand.

Question 24

How do I handle platform disputes (YouTube strikes, Twitch bans)?

Accepted Answer

We appeal strikes directly with platform legal teams, draft formal response letters, and escalate when necessary. Each platform has its own terms of service and appeals process. If the strike is wrongful, we document and push for reinstatement.

Question 25

What is a 50-state gaming survey and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive legal analysis of skill-based gaming regulations across all U.S. states. We identify where you can legally operate, what licenses you need, and what compliance steps are required. Without this, you risk launching in states that could shut you down or fine you.

Question 26

Do I need a gaming license to operate?

Accepted Answer

Depends on your game mechanics, prize structure, and target states. Some states classify skill-based games as legal contests. Others treat them as gambling requiring strict licensing. We analyze your platform and tell you exactly what's required before you launch.

Question 27

What happens if I get a cease-and-desist from a state regulator?

Accepted Answer

We handle regulatory defense, compliance negotiations, and licensing applications. Responding quickly and strategically is critical. Ignoring regulators makes everything worse.

Question 28

How do geofencing and age verification work?

Accepted Answer

Most states require blocking users in prohibited jurisdictions and verifying users are above the minimum age. We help implement compliant systems and draft terms of service that protect you from liability.

Question 29

When should I form an LLC or corporation?

Accepted Answer

Before you start making money or signing contracts. Operating as a sole proprietor exposes personal assets to business liabilities. An LLC or corporation creates legal separation. We help you choose the right structure based on your tax situation and growth plans.

Question 30

LLC vs. corporation: which is right for me?

Accepted Answer

LLCs are simpler: pass-through taxation, fewer formalities, more flexibility. Corporations offer advantages for raising capital from investors. Most solo entrepreneurs start with an LLC. If you're raising venture capital, you'll want a C-Corp.

Question 31

Do co-founders need a formal agreement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Founder agreements define ownership, decision-making, what happens if someone leaves, and how equity vests. Most founder disputes happen because these terms were never documented. We draft agreements that prevent future litigation.

Question 32

How long does trademark registration take?

Accepted Answer

Federal trademarks take 8-12 months for approval. We file within 72 hours and handle all USPTO correspondence. You get protection during the application process through intent-to-use filings.

Question 33

When should I start thinking about estate planning?

Accepted Answer

As soon as you have assets worth protecting or people who depend on you. Athletes signing their first major contract, creators generating six figures, entrepreneurs building businesses. Without a plan, state law decides what happens to your money, your business, and your kids.

Question 34

What's the difference between a will and a trust?

Accepted Answer

A will goes through probate: a public court process that takes months and costs money. A trust avoids probate, transferring assets privately and immediately. For high earners and business owners, trusts also offer asset protection, tax benefits, and control over how heirs receive money.

Question 35

I'm young and healthy. Do I really need this?

Accepted Answer

If you have assets or dependents, yes. Estate planning covers incapacity too. If you're in an accident and can't make decisions, who manages your business? Who has medical power of attorney? Without documents in place, your family goes to court. That's expensive and stressful during a crisis.

Question 36

How do I protect assets from lawsuits?

Accepted Answer

Strategic entity structuring (LLCs, trusts, asset protection trusts), insurance planning, and proper titling. Athletes, creators, and business owners face liability risks. We build legal barriers between personal wealth and potential claims.

Question 37

What happens to my business if I die or become incapacitated?

Accepted Answer

Without a succession plan, your business could be frozen, sold for pennies, or fall apart during probate. We create continuity plans with buy-sell agreements, key person insurance, and transfer mechanisms so someone can step in immediately.

Question 38

What licenses do I need to open a bar or restaurant?

Accepted Answer

Liquor license (most critical), food service license, health permits, signage permits, and potentially entertainment licenses. Requirements vary by state and municipality. We handle the full application process.

Question 39

How long does it take to get a liquor license?

Accepted Answer

New Jersey: 4-6 months. New York: 3-4 months on average. Ohio: typically 2-3 months. We expedite where possible and handle all paperwork, background checks, and board appearances.

Question 40

Should I buy an existing liquor license or apply for new?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, buying existing is faster and more reliable. New licenses are rarely issued, and waiting lists can be years long. We negotiate purchase agreements and ensure all regulatory requirements are met.

Question 41

I'm franchising my restaurant concept. What do I need?

Accepted Answer

Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), franchise agreement, operations manual, trademark registration, and multi-state compliance filings. Franchising is heavily regulated. We prepare FDDs, handle state registrations, and structure agreements that protect your brand.

Question 42

How much does Outside Counsel cost?

Accepted Answer

Retainers start at $2,500/month. We also offer project-based pricing for single engagements. We provide exact pricing after understanding your needs during a consultation.

Question 43

What happens if I go over my monthly retainer hours?

Accepted Answer

Overage is billed at your hourly rate based on your retainer tier. Most clients stay within their allocation because we're efficient and transparent about time spent. If you consistently exceed hours, we recommend upgrading to a higher tier.

Question 44

Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

For larger projects, yes. We structure milestone-based payments so you're not paying everything upfront. Retainers are billed monthly.

Question 45

How fast can you turn work around?

Accepted Answer

Urgent contract reviews: 24-48 hours. Trademark filings: 72 hours. Strategy calls: within 48 hours of booking. Complex projects take longer due to scope, but we provide clear timelines upfront.

Question 46

What if I'm not in New York, New Jersey, or Ohio?

Accepted Answer

Federal trademark work, NIL contracts, gaming compliance, and most business transactions aren't state-specific. We're licensed in NY, NJ, and OH, and handle federal matters nationwide. For state-specific matters elsewhere, we refer to trusted local counsel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Outside Counsel Model

NCAA House Settlement & Revenue Share

Athletes & NIL

Creators & Entertainment

Gaming & Compliance

Business Formation & Transactions

Estate Planning & Wealth Protection

Hospitality & Licensing

Pricing, Retainers & Process

Still Have Questions?