Chambers & Partners 2008
Music




Unlike many of its competitors, much of Charles Russell's music practice is firmly concentrated on classical music, and it represents the country's leading orchestras including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Clients like the fact that "it is a firm with stature and understands the sector." Whilst maintaining this reputation on the classical side, the firm also has a substantial body of pop music clients. It has a long-standing relationship with Wizard (Bahamas), owner of most of the Marc Bolan and T-Rex back catalogue, with recent work including a High Court case concerning infringement of copyright in publishing and recording rights. Clients say the lawyers are "extremely interested in the issues we confront, quick to respond, clear in their advice, and very nice people to work with."

Partner Duncan Lamont is head of the media and entertainment group. Peter Coles is the lead partner in the film and television team, rated as "a competent, safe lawyer and extremely nice guy." His expertise in film and television development, production and financing was honed in part by his tenure as legal and business affairs director of several UK entertainment companies. He recently advised long-time client Universal Pictures on key aspects of its film acquisitions, including 'White Noise 2', 'Silent Hill' and 'Untraceable'.