Georgia Lawyers for the Arts – Atlanta, GA

Protecting Creativity in the Capital of the South

Georgia Lawyers for the Arts (GLA) is a vital nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the creative community through legal protection and education. Founded in 1975 by attorneys Benjamin T. White and Robert C. Lower, GLA was established to bridge the gap between the complex legal world and the artistic world. For over four decades, the organization has served as a guardian for musicians, painters, filmmakers, and inventors who often lack the resources to hire private counsel. Located in the historic King Plow Arts Center, GLA sits physically and philosophically in the heart of Atlanta’s arts district.

Unlike a traditional law firm, GLA operates a network of volunteer attorneys who provide pro bono legal assistance to qualifying artists and small arts organizations. They understand that a single copyright dispute or a bad contract can derail an artist’s career. In addition to direct legal aid, the organization is a powerhouse of education, hosting frequent seminars on intellectual property, business formation, and contract negotiation. Their Georgia PATENTS program is a standout initiative, helping solo inventors and small businesses secure patent protection for their innovations.

Specialized Legal Services for Creatives

Georgia Lawyers for the Arts provides focused support in areas critical to the creative economy:

• Copyright and Trademark: Assisting artists in registering their works and protecting their brands from infringement.
• Contract Review: Helping musicians, authors, and designers understand licensing agreements, gallery contracts, and commission deals.
• Georgia PATENTS: A dedicated program connecting low-income inventors with patent attorneys to navigate the USPTO process.
• Mediation: Offering dispute resolution services to resolve conflicts between artists and other parties without the expense of litigation.
• Nonprofit Formation: Guiding emerging arts organizations through the process of incorporating and obtaining 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

A Pillar of the Arts Community

GLA’s impact is measurable and profound; the organization facilitates millions of dollars in donated legal services annually. Led by Executive Director Meredith Ragains, GLA is not just a legal service provider but a community advocate. They work tirelessly to ensure that Georgia remains a hospitable environment for creators. The organization is supported by memberships and donations, allowing them to keep their services accessible to those who need them most.

The office is located in the vibrant Westside district, surrounded by galleries and studios. They operate primarily by appointment and through their educational workshops. If you are an artist needing legal guidance or an attorney looking to give back, Georgia Lawyers for the Arts is your home base.