Above the Dotted Line provides legal services to protect the rights and interests of book authors, freelance writers, and self-publishers. My practice includes contract review and negotiation, copyright protection and registration, pre-publication reviews, and tailored services for self-publishing authors.
Whether you’re a seasoned author navigating the complexities of traditional publishing contracts or a self-published writer seeking guidance for licensing agreements and vendor contracts, a literary lawyer helps you safeguard your creative works and smooth your publishing path.
Literary Lawyer
I provide tailored legal services to both traditionally published and self-publishing authors. For traditional publishing, I review and negotiate contracts with publishers, revising these agreements so your rights are better protected. For self-publishing authors, I assist with contracts related to cover art, layout, printing, distribution, e-book platforms, publicity, and more, helping you navigate the self-publishing landscape.
Don’t leave your literary and publishing endeavors to chance. Protect your rights, safeguard your interests, and enhance publication by engaging professional legal services. Contact me today to discuss your specific needs and to take the first step towards creating the writing business that will help you sustain your writing career. Learn more about our Literary Lawyer Services
Contract Review and Negotiation
Navigating the complex world of publishing contracts can be daunting for authors. I offer contract review and revision services designed to increase your knowledge about your intellectual property rights and how to exploit those rights. Whether you need to negotiate a traditional publishing contract, an agency agreement, or an agreement with a self-publishing service provider, I’ll analyze the terms and negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible deal. Learn More About Publishing Contract Review and Negotiation
Copyright Protection and Registration
Your literary work is a valuable asset that deserves copyright protection. I assist writers of all kinds when it comes to understanding their copyright ownership, registering their works with the U.S. Copyright Office, obtaining the right to legally use third-party intellectual property on the writer’s work, and enforcing the writer’s rights against infringement. With professional help, you can confidently learn to exploit your bundle of rights and maximize the value of your intellectual property. Learn More About Copyright Protection
Libel Law and Pre-publication Issues
Mitigating legal risks related to defamation is essential before your work reaches the public. I offer pre-publication legal reviews to identify potential issues related to libel, privacy, permissions, and publicity rights. By vetting your manuscript, I help you reduce the risk of costly legal disputes prior to or following publication. Learn More About Libel in Publishing
Free 15-Minute Consultation
Our services begin with a free 15-minute consultation. You can tell us what you need and we’ll talk about how we can help. Current clients include:
- Authors
- Joint Authors
- Self-Publishers
- Ghostwriters
- Work-for-Hire/Freelancers
- Book/Writing Coaches
- Editors
- Bloggers
- Literary Agents
We Accept PayPal and Credit Cards
Payment Plans Available
It can be far more expensive and problematic
to hire an attorney to take action about a contract after you sign it
than it is to hire a literary attorney to review and explain
the contract’s terms before you sign it.