Most indie artists don’t realize they’re unprotected until it’s too late.

This week, I sat down with attorney Jonathan Sime of Spence Law Firm to talk through one of the most overlooked areas in the DIY music space: the law.

We get into the real-world stuff musicians deal with—copyrights, trademarks, split sheets, contracts, band breakups, shady deals—and how to actually protect your work without breaking the bank.

Jonathan doesn’t just give the “go hire a lawyer” speech. He breaks down practical steps you can take today to lock down your intellectual property, avoid common traps, and understand what you should and shouldn’t be signing. We also touch on some famous legal cases—from The Verve’s royalty nightmare to Taylor Swift's re-recordings—and what DIY musicians can learn from them.

Whether you're just starting out or already gigging regularly, this episode will help you understand what’s yours, what’s at risk, and how to make sure your creativity isn’t getting taken advantage of.

What We Cover:

• What intellectual property really means (and why it matters)
• How to copyright your music and when to trademark your brand
• Band agreements, split sheets, and the value of having things in writing
• Free and affordable resources for legal support
• Real stories of major artists who lost out (and fought back)
• How to spot red flags in contracts
• Where AI and online templates help—and where they can backfire
• Legal FAQs every indie artist should know

If you're serious about building a sustainable music career, this episode is a must-listen.

Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal assistance, consult a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction regarding your specific situation.

People, resources, and links mentioned in this episode

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🔗 @jsimelaw

🔗 Spence Law

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⁠⁠⁠🎙️ Brought to you by Helvig Productions⁠

Production, videography, and coaching to help you sound your best, tell your story, and promote your music. Think of us like your extra bandmate, 100% focused on helping you create something special that you and your fans will enjoy for a lifetime.

🙏 Thank You

This podcast is made possible by the hard work, expertise, and commitment of my team: Max Greene and Joey Biehn. I'm forever grateful. And thank YOU, for listening.

Theme Music: "Thankful" Courtesy of ⁠⁠⁠LUEDVIG⁠⁠⁠