Job Purpose
This role will advise on all aspects of the litigation and pre‑litigation claims affecting Sony Music Publishing. You will handle a large and diverse docket of litigation‑related matters, including issues relating to copyright, artificial intelligence, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, and fair use, and lead efforts to protect SMP’s intellectual property rights.
Responsibilities
- Manage and drive strategy for affirmative and defensive litigations, regulatory proceedings, claims, and intellectual property enforcement matters in federal, state, and foreign jurisdictions.
- Investigate businesses such as digital services, websites, and mobile apps that use SMP musical compositions without a license; collect evidence of infringement, confirm SMP’s rights, draft cease‑and‑desist letters, and negotiate and draft settlement agreements.
- Defend SMP and its songwriters in connection with pre‑litigation copyright infringement claims; analyze merits of claims, interact with SMP songwriters and other music publishers, draft correspondence, and negotiate and draft settlement agreements.
- Oversee outside counsel, review and edit draft court filings, assist with litigation discovery (including document collection and witness preparation), and analyze music publishing agreements and other agreements.
- Represent SMP in mediations and at trial; prepare company witnesses for depositions and trial testimony.
- Regularly counsel business units on various matters (e.g., risk mitigation, litigation, intellectual property, contract interpretation, draft contract language, and company policies and procedures).
- Interact with SMP’s internal business units and senior executives, outside and opposing counsel, artist and songwriter representatives, music industry trade associations, and infringing services.
- Perform other relevant duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (JD) required, licensed and in good standing to practice law in New York.
- At least two years of experience at a law firm or as in‑house counsel.
- Strong experience in litigation.
- Familiarity with music law and the various rights affecting musical compositions; experience working on music copyright cases and/or cases involving music publishing agreements is a plus.
- Excellent drafting, writing and communication skills.
- Demonstrated experience working effectively in a diverse environment.
- Computer literacy (MS Word & Excel essential).
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.
- Ability to multi‑task and juggle competing priorities; strong organization skills with high attention to detail.
- Ability to be innovative and suggest change/improvements within the scope of work.
- Professional interface with all levels of the organization, clients, and vendors.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Ability to research legal matters quickly and accurately.
- High levels of integrity and honesty.
- Ability to adhere to deadlines and handle multiple, diverse assignments.
- Strong time management skills.
- Some travel required.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- 7.5‑hour business workday but variations in work volume frequently require extended working hours.
What We Give You
- A modern office environment designed to foster productivity, creativity, and teamwork.
- A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life & disability coverage, and 401(k) + employer matching.
- Voluntary benefits such as company‑paid identity theft protection, resources for pets, mental health and meditation resources, industry‑leading fertility coverage, fully paid leave for childbirth or bonding, fully paid leave for caregivers, programs for loved ones with developmental disabilities and neurodiversity, subsidized backup child and elder care, and reimbursement for adoption, surrogacy, tuition and student loans.
- Professional growth & development opportunities.
- Flexible time off.
- Dedicated compensation: $107,400.00‑$153,400.00 (base salary range).
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy), gender, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, military status, status as a veteran or disabled veteran, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or family status, genetic information, medical condition, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation.
EEO is the Law. Supplement Right to Work (English/Spanish). E-Verify Participation (English/Spanish).