Maryland Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts

Join Maryland Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (MDVLA) for a discussion on common legal issues that creative entrepreneurs or small arts organizations may encounter. This session covers contracts, intellectual property, and business entity basics, empowering attendees to better understand the legal aspects of their creative work and to determine when to consult with an attorney. This information is essential for any creative entrepreneur or arts organization looking to protect their work and rights. Founded in 1985, MDVLA is a nonprofit dedicated to safeguarding the legal rights of Maryland artists and organizations through pro bono legal services and education.

This event is presented by UMBC’s Center for Innovation, Research, and Creativity in the Arts (CIRCA).

Christia Ravenell is the Director of Legal Services at MDVLA. In this role, she provides legal assistance to MDVLA clients, develops legal resource guides and professional development workshops, supports volunteer attorneys, and participates in advocacy and stakeholder initiatives on behalf of MDVLA and its constituency. A Baltimore native, Ravenell holds degrees from Howard University, New York University, and Georgetown Law. When she’s not at an Art Law Clinic, you can find her in dance class or digging through crates at your local record store.

Admission is free. The talk will be accompanied by a free lunch served at 11:45. (An r.s.v.p. form will be available soon.)

This event is open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University’s nondiscrimination policy.