Don Walerstein Merges Legal Practice with Entertainment Law Boutique Barkin Smith

Walerstein Barkin Smith LLP to provide personalized counsel to clients in television, motion pictures and new media.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) May 13, 2009 -- Don Walerstein and Barkin Smith LLP announced today that Walerstein's powerhouse legal practice has merged with Gary Barkin and Jill Smith's entertainment law boutique to create Walerstein Barkin Smith LLP (WBS).

(from left) Gary Barkin, Jill Smith and Don Walerstein

"After collaborating with Barkin Smith on several matters, we realized that the combination of our practices would bring enhanced resources and unparalleled entertainment deal experience to our clients," said Walerstein. "Given the diverse and deep industry backgrounds of our partners, WBS provides our actor, writer, director and producer clientele with legal perspectives from all sides of the negotiating table."

Walerstein advises some of the biggest names in scripted television and motion pictures, including numerous award-winning actors, producers, directors and writers. His practice dovetails with Barkin Smith's client roster, which includes many unscripted television producers and on-air personalities, as well as well-known motion picture talent and production companies. "There have been many law firm mergers, but what makes this combination of legal talent unique is the glove-like fit of our complementary areas of practice," commented partner Gary Barkin.

WBS partner Jill Smith added, "Don's practice is highly regarded throughout the industry. Our union enables all of us to expand our exceptional service across an even broader spectrum of the entertainment world."

Clients of the merged firm include actors, writers, directors, producers and/or production companies responsible for such films as "Brokeback Mountain," "Meet the Fockers," "Coraline," "Last House on the Left" and the upcoming "Red Tails," as well as hit series such as "Law and Order," "Raising the Bar," "American Idol," "Ugly Betty," "Nip/Tuck," "The Closer," "One Tree Hill" and "Kitchen Nightmares."

The firm's partners agree on the importance of navigating clients through the multitude of complex deal issues - from initial offer to deal signing and beyond. The partners focus on protecting clients' interests while maximizing the upside of every deal. Walerstein noted, "Remaining highly accessible and attentive to every client - from the award winners to the up-and-comers - is the hallmark of WBS."

Existing clients of both firms are transitioning seamlessly and gaining an immediate increase in legal firepower. Walerstein's associate Joseph Weiner also has joined the firm. The firm's offices are located in Brentwood.

About WBS:
Walerstein Barkin Smith LLP is recognized in the entertainment industry as a trusted legal ally in all aspects of deal making - providing attentive service at every stage of the transaction and beyond. The firm partners with agents and managers to offer its clients strategic consideration of deal points and invaluable legal and business insights from industry veterans who have sat on all sides of the negotiating table. Known for its abundant Hollywood connections, yet un-Hollywood attitude, WBS has gained the respect, trust and long-term business of some of the most celebrated motion picture and television talent in the industry.

For more information about the firm and its founding partners, Don Walerstein, Gary Barkin or Jill Smith, visit www.wbslawyers.com.

Media Contact:
Linda Press
CorpCommunicators
213-787-5627

###