By Stephanie Pottick, Esq. Pottick Law PC and provide protection for success
Legal issues are particularly important in the toy industry. From product liability, intellectual property and contracts to manufacturing and licensing, many areas of law can affect the toy industry, your business and even your bottom line.
Whether you’re just starting out or already building in the industry, know the difference between hiring an attorney and how to find the right person to successfully complete a deal and incorporate a product into the finish line. The purpose is to consolidate business and law so that you can make the best decision for the company.
Keeping your business free of potentially expensive mistakes is worth the extra time and effort. Finding someone who understands how legal matters affect your business is invaluable!
Stephanie Pottick, Esq.
I got it: I worked in the toy industry in the business field before becoming a lawyer. There are a lot to deal with every day, but getting proper guidance can make a big difference.
When you are just starting out, you may feel comfortable, such as establishing your business entity or submitting basic copyrights. However, as your company grows, you face more complex legal challenges, such as negotiating a licensing agreement or handling product security, so you must get a lawyer on speed dial to get proper guidance.
Tips for finding a suitable lawyer:
- experience: Choose someone with experience in the toy industry or consumer products so they can understand the unique challenges of our industry.
- Expertise: You won’t hire a divorce lawyer to help you get a licensing contract, right? Of course not! So make sure you hire someone who understands the legal field you need (license, trademark, contract, product safety, etc.).
- Request Recommendation: Consult with your colleagues and industry associations for advice. They can tell you who is great and who can be avoided.
- character: Yes, yes: You should like your attorney! Hire people you like to work with and they seek your best interests. It would be a benefit if they explain complex legal issues in an easy-to-understand way.
Questions to ask:
- How long have you been practicing?
- How much experience do you have to work with a toy company [INSERT YOUR TOPIC HERE]?
- How do you work with your clients?
- How much will you charge for this project?
- What would it be like to continue working together?
Most importantly: Keeping your business safe from potentially expensive mistakes is worth the extra time and effort. Finding someone who understands how legal matters affect your business is invaluable! If you haven’t found the perfect fit yet, keep looking. You never work with someone and you can change the legal team if it makes sense. It is important to find the right lawyer for you. Stay safe and stay legal!
* Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice.
Versions of this feature were originally published in the 2025 Big Toy Book. Click here to read the full question! Want to receive a printed toy book? Click here to get subscription options!
