Step into the dynamic intersection of fashion, technology, and entertainment with LA-based IP Attorney Almuhtada Smith. Our conversation comes at a crucial time as AI innovation reshapes creative industries and Los Angeles prepares for the 2028 Olympics.

After working in Big Law for several years, Almuhtada started his own firm, ARS Counsel — Strategic Counsel for Innovators and Creatives. He's represented trailblazers in fashion and tech, including a recent collaboration with his client Cointel and legendary filmmaker Spike Lee. Almuhtada graduated magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa from Morehouse College and received his J.D. from UCLA School of Law, where he served as chief managing editor of the Entertainment Law Review.

In this episode, Almuhtada takes us behind the scenes of the collab between Cointel and Spike Lee. He also breaks down IP issues beyond registration that fashion and tech entrepreneurs should be thinking about when participating in accelerator programs, and why founders need independent legal representation — even when programs provide attorneys. And as the tech policy landscape continues to evolve, Almuhtada explains how AI is revolutionizing entertainment and retail, and makes the case for legislation that ensures ethical AI use while allowing for small businesses to compete in the space.

Plus, Almuhtada shares his insights on how third-year law students and recent graduates can secure a position in fashion law and entertainment in the current legal market.

This episode is a must-listen for designers, tech startups and law school students — especially in the current legal market.

Connect with Almuhtada on LinkedIn and Instagram

Learn more about ARS Counsel: website, LinkedIn and Instagram

Read Almuhtada’s Bloomberg Law piece on IP reparations for Black artists.

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