Steven T. Lowe

Managing Partner

With more than 30 years of experience in Intellectual Property (“IP”), business, and entertainment law, Steven T. Lowe has distinguished himself as a preeminent attorney in his chosen field. Known, among other things, for his groundbreaking work in the field of copyright law and championing the rights of creators in the entertainment industry, Mr. Lowe and the firm, Lowe & Associates (the “Firm”), continue to successfully resolve many high (and low) profile cases. The Firm has racked up rave testimonials from its clients, employing the Firm philosophy of providing a mix of highly personalized client attention, simple and straightforward messaging, aggressive skilled lawyering, and creative problem solving.

As Managing Partner of Lowe & Associates since 1991, Mr. Lowe oversees all firm matters with an emphasis on dispute resolution, from pursuing cases in court to resolving cases before they get filed via negotiation and mediation. Areas of focus include copyright and trademark, about which Mr. Lowe has authored multiple published articles, contracts disputes, defamation/invasion of privacy and cases involving unfair and fraudulent business practices. Mr. Lowe has been selected as a “Super Lawyer” by Thomson Reuters, from 2009 to the present, signifying he is in the top 5% of the lawyers in California. He has also been rated “A-V preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell since 1998. An “A-V rating” signifies the highest competence and ethics in the profession.

Mr. Lowe is also a founding member, and current President, of the National Society of Entertainment and Art Lawyers (“NSEAL”), formerly the California Society of Entertainment Lawyers (“CSEL”) (formed in 2013), a not-for-profit organization of attorneys dedicated to artists’ rights. In 2014, CSEL’s United States Supreme Court amicus briefs, on behalf of the plaintiff, rocked the legal world in a very public victory against a major studio in Petrella v. MGM, 134 S. Ct. 1962 (2014). Mr. Lowe’s article, coauthored with a colleague, about the case: “Raging Bull Impales Hollywood Circuit” was published in the Los Angeles and San Francisco Daily Journals soon thereafter.

In July 2019, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel of comedians, lawyers, and entertainment industry guests, on behalf of CSEL, called “Comedy and the Law,” and in November 2021, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel for CSEL on “termination rights” in copyright law. In November 2022, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel on current developments in defamation law. In September 2023 Mr. Lowe was a panelist for the Beverly Hills Bar Association in a webinar entitled “Andy Warhol meets Jack Daniels: What Supreme Court Decisions from 2023 Portend for the Coming Term.” And in February 2023, Mr. Lowe was on a distinguished panel of entertainment lawyers speaking for the Copyright Society of the USA on the issue of “Substantial Similarity” in copyright cases in Palms Springs, California. In addition, in May 2016 Mr. Lowe co-chaired, with former Loyola Law Professor Jay Dougherty, a panel about trends in Copyright Infringement Lawsuits. Recent articles by Mr. Lowe include “The Estate of Andy Warhol and Prince’s Photographer Square Off in the Supreme Court” (Los Angeles Daily Journal, November 4, 2022); “Rights and Remedies of Copyright Co-Owners” (Los Angeles Lawyer – May 2020); and “Death of Copyright 3: The Awakening” (Los Angeles Lawyer Summer 2018). Mr. Lowe’s earlier published articles include: “Death of Copyright” (Los Angeles Lawyer 2010); “Drafting Tips for Transactional Attorneys,” Los Angeles and San Francisco Daily Journals (March 2010); “Royal Treatment” Los Angeles Lawyer (June 2006); “Credit Where Credit Is Due,” Los Angeles Lawyer (December 2004); and “Pre-emptive Strike” Los Angeles Lawyer (March 2003).

In 2012 and 2013, Mr. Lowe served as a panelist and chair for the Beverly Hills Bar Association’s seminars entitled “Death of Copyright” and “Death of Copyright: The Sequel,” respectively (named after his articles by the same name). These articles examine the glaring inconsistencies within copyright law and have become required reading at top law schools, such as UCLA.

Mr. Lowe has been successful in litigating and/or settling multiple lawsuits including:

(a) “Pirates of the Caribbean” (Alfred v. Disney) (reversing a dismissal with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in July 2020) and defeating a motion for Summary Judgment in December 2021.

(b) Settling a copyright infringement/breach of contract case against a film distributor (Good Deed V. Cinedigm).

(c) Settling an “idea theft” case involving the television series “The Mick,” after defeating a Motion for Summary Judgment by FOX (Lewis v. Fox); and successfully resolving many other cases involving everything from copyright/trademark infringement to defamation.

Over the course of the last 10 years, the Firm has won numerous important motions, including multiple motions for summary judgment, motions to dismiss (in both state and federal court), motions to strike, and Anti-SLAPP motions. For example, in June 2015, the Firm defeated an Anti-SLAPP Motion and multiple Motions to Dismiss in a high-profile copyright infringement idea theft case (Jordan-Benel v. Universal City Studios, CV-14-5577-MWF, 2015 WL 3888149 (C.D. Cal. 2015); affirmed on appeal Jordan Benel v. Universal City Studios, 859 F. 3d 1184 (9th Cir. 2017)). The Firm has also received numerous district and appellate court decisions in its favor. The following is a non-exhaustive sample:

A. Josephine Eshagian v. Olivia Hazin [No. B312167, November 14, 2022] (2nd Circuit Court of Appeals) (reversing the issuance of a Restraining Order)

B. Arthur Lee Alfred II v. The Walt Disney Company 388 F.Supp.3d 1174, 2019 WL 3495847 (9th Circuit 2020)

C. Brittle v. Time Warner, Inc., 2017 WL 3047058 (E.D.Va June 20, 2017) (denying Motion to Dismiss)

D. Van Dyke v. Lions Gate Entm’t, Inc., No. SACV 13-454-JLS, 2014 WL 12470017 (C.D. Cal. July 23, 2014) (denying Motion for Summary Judgement)

E. Van Dyke v. Lions Gate Entm’t, Inc., No. SACV 13-454-JLS ANX, 2014 WL 950765 (C.D. Cal. Mar. 11, 2014) (denying Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings)

F. Fontana v. Harra, No. CV 12-10708 CAS JCGX, 2013 WL 990014 (C.D. Cal. Mar. 12, 2013) (granting Motion to Dismiss)

G. Sepe v. Sepe-Wiesenfeld, No. B23687, 2013 WL 1834735 (Cal. Ct. App. May 2, 2013) (reversing dismissal of case)

H. Kabehie v. Zoland, 102 Cal. App. 4th 513 (2002) (affirming grant of Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings on the issue of copyright preemption)

Mr. Lowe is admitted to practice before the State Bar of California (1985), the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California (1986), the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals (1989), and the United States Supreme Court (2014). He is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law (1984), Vanderbilt University (1980), and Greenwich High School, Greenwich, CT (1976).

Recent Blog Posts

Recommendations

Kevin Nguyen
Steven’s legal counsel and business expertise has been a great help to our business. Great team to work with and highly recommended. I guess miracles do exist… I never expected this outcome.
I guess miracles do exist… I never expected this outcome. Thank you for the excellent work you’ve done. I am sure we will work together in the future. Steven T. Lowe and the Lowe Law firm negotiated my TV series idea theft case, settling amicably with a major network without even having to file a suit.
Over the past 15 years, while living in Hollywood, California, I’ve worked in the film business as an actor, writer, producer, director, editor, and camera operator. This has caused me to need a top-notch attorney and firm to provide well-crafted contracts to personally protect me, my company, and my other assets, as well as to provide sound advice as a friend, especially where emotions of the business might cloud one’s judgement. One particular case stands out amongst the many. In 2011, Steven T. Lowe and the Lowe Law firm negotiated my TV series idea theft case, settling amicably with a major network without even having to file a suit. That rarely happens unless a firm has juice. When the stakes are high, go with Lowe.

– Mark B.

Jonathan Hodges on behalf of The Hodges Family and Hollywood Sound Recorders.
On behalf of my family, I want to express how grateful we are for all the hard work the team has put in during the past few weeks. I can’t put into words what it felt like after reading what was filed today. To actually know lawyers are doing everything they can to represent us is exhilarating. I’m proud to have each and everyone of you on the team. Hopefully it works out, but at least I know we are doing our best. THANK YOU.

– Jonathan Hodges on behalf of The Hodges Family and Hollywood Sound Recorders.

Steve Syatt
Steven’s legal counsel and business expertise is pivotal to us in helping build our company, and we are deeply grateful to him and his team. Kent A.
Lowe & Associates were recommended to me by Attorney Howard E. King when seeking the need for legal counsel and representation. After initial consultation, their advice was always in my best interest as they strived to help me see resolutions from several legal perspectives considering my input as well. Communication was particularly responsive including Paralegal Office Manager, Shanette Avery, who returned my calls almost immediately. Associate Attorney Aleksandra Hilvert kindly worked to expedite my case allowing for a quick resolution. Therefore, I would highly recommend this professional team to represent anyone in legal matters that would require their expertise.

– Kent A.

Elsa Ramo, Entertainment Attorney
I endorse this lawyer [Steven T. Lowe]. Any time I have a client in need of a litigator, he is where I send them. Yaasmyn Fula
First retained Steven in 1997 and received excellent legal analysis and success for 20 years. In my lawsuit against Death Row Records, Interscope Records, Estate of Tupac Shakur, et. al., his interpretation of laws and methodical negotiation style was instrumental in securing royalties for my deceased son Kadafi, who performed with Tupac. He is a staunch advocate for the people especially the little guy knocked around by corporate giants. Truly the people’s lawyer providing access to courts and a platform for more equitable laws. His firm legal analysis and moral compass enhanced my legal case with resounding success.

– Yaasmyn Fula

Karen Kruper
It’s tricky finding a lawyer that you like enough to hire, trust enough to go for the throat and can be available to outline options in a language non lawyers can understand. Steven Lowe was a recommendation and from our first conversation, I felt confident that he could stickhandle my case(s) effectively. But the real gem in all this, is Mario Goluža – who is a Senior Law Clerk with Lowe & Associates. Mario has kept me sane, updating me regularly, and answering the myriad of questions that arose once the case was in process. Is this the new standard for the law profession? I hope so. If not, you’re at the wrong firm.

– Karen Kruper

Samuel J. Fox, Esq., Fox Law Group
Steven and Kris are top notch strategists, thinkers and lawyers and they come without big egos and big law firm billing practices. So I have a deep appreciation of their value

Managing Partner

With more than 30 years of experience in business and entertainment litigation, Steven T. Lowe has distinguished himself as a preeminent attorney in his chosen field. Known for, among other things, his groundbreaking work in the field of copyright law and championing the rights of professionals in the entertainment industry, Mr. Lowe and the firm, Lowe & Associates (the “Firm”), continue to successfully resolve many high (and low) profile cases. The Firm has racked up rave testimonials/Google reviews from its clients, employing the Firm philosophy of providing highly personalized client attention, keeping the message simple (whenever possible) aggressive skilled lawyering, and creative problem solving.   

As Managing Partner of Lowe & Associates since 1991, Mr. Lowe oversees all matters involving entertainment and business with an emphasis on dispute resolution from pursuing cases in court, to resolving cases before they get filed via negotiation and mediation. Areas of focus include intellectual property (copyright and trademark), contracts, defamation/invasion of privacy and cases involving unfair and fraudulent business practices. Mr. Lowe has been selected as a “Super Lawyer” by Thomson Reuters, from 2009 to the present, signifying he is in the top 5% of the lawyers in California. He has also rated “A-V preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbel since 1998; an “A-V rating” signifies the highest competence and ethics in the profession.

Mr. Lowe is also a proud founding member, and current President, of the California Society of Entertainment Lawyers (“CSEL”) (formed in 2013), a not-for-profit organization of attorneys dedicated to artists’ rights and advocacy. The organization is in the process of becoming a force to be reckoned with by going national i.e., the National Society of Entertainment and Arts Lawyers (“NSEAL”).

In July 2019, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel of comedians, lawyers, and entertainment industry guests, on behalf of CSEL, called “Comedy and the Law.”, and in November 2021, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel for CSEL on “termination rights” in the entertainment industry. In November 2022, Mr. Lowe chaired and moderated a panel on current developments in the law of defamation. And in February 2023 Mr. Lowe will be on a panel for the Copyright Society of the USA on the issue of “Substantial Similarity” in copyright cases, taking place in Palms Springs, California. In 2022 CSEL was on the winning side in two major cases having filed amicus brief in favor of the appellants on both cases: Unicolors, Inc., v.  H&M Hennes & Mauritz, L.P., et al., (finding that mistakes of the copyright registration forms should not invalidate the registration); and Francesca Gregorini v. Apple Inc., et al., (finding sufficient substantial similarity between television show on Apple and 1993 movie to reverse dismissal). 

In 2014, CSEL’s United States Supreme Court amicus brief, on behalf of the plaintiff, rocked the legal world in a very public victory against a major studio in Petrella v. MGM, 134 S. Ct. 1962 (2014). Mr. Lowe article, coauthored with a colleague, about the case: “Raging Bull Impales Hollywood Circuit” was published in the Los Angeles and San Francisco Daily Journals soon thereafter. Other recent articles by Mr. Lowe include “The Estate of Andy Warhol and Prince’s Photographer Square Off in the Supreme Court” (Los Angeles Daily Journal, November 4, 2022) “Rights and Remedies of Copyright Co-Owners” (Los Angeles Lawyer – May 2020) and “Death of Copyright 3: The Awakening” (Los Angeles Lawyer Summer 2018). Mr. Lowe’s earlier published articles include: “Death of Copyright” (Los Angeles Lawyer 2010) “Drafting Tips for Transactional Attorneys,” Los Angeles and San Francisco Daily Journals (March 2010); “Royal Treatment” Los Angeles Lawyer (June 2006); “Credit Where Credit Is Due,” Los Angeles Lawyer (December 2004); and “Pre-emptive Strike” Los Angeles Lawyer (March 2003). In addition, in May 2016 Mr. Lowe co-chaired, with Loyola Law Professor Jay Dougherty, a panel about trends in Copyright Infringement Lawsuits.

In 2012 and 2013, Mr. Lowe served as a panelist and chair for the Beverly Hills Bar Association’s seminars entitled “Death of Copyright” and “Death of Copyright: The Sequel,” respectively, (named after his articles of the same name). The articles examine the glaring inconsistencies within copyright law and have become required reading at UCLA and other law schools (copyright and entertainment classes).

Recently, Mr. Lowe has been successful in litigating and/or settling multiple lawsuits including:

(a) “Pirates of the Caribbean” (Alfred v. Disney) (defeating motion for Summary Judgment in December 2021 and reversing a dismissal with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in July 2020)
(b) Settling a copyright infringement/breach of contract case against a film distributor, (Good Deed V. Cinedigm)
(c) Settling an “idea theft” case involving the television series “The Mick,” after defeating a Motion for Summary Judgment by FOX (Lewis v. Fox); and successfully resolving many other cases involving everything from copyright/trademark infringement to defamation.

Over the course of the last 10 years, the Firm has won numerous important motions, including multiple motions for summary judgment, motions to dismiss (in both state and federal court), motions to strike, and an anti-SLAPP motion. For example, in June 2015, the Firm defeated an Anti-Slapp Motion and multiple Motions to Dismiss in a high-profile copyright infringement idea theft case (Jordan-Benel v. Universal City Studios, CV-14-5577-MWF, 2015 WL 3888149 (C.D. Cal. 2015); affirmed on appeal Jordan Benel v. Universal City Studios, 859 F. 3d 1184 (9th Cir. 2017)). The Firm has also received numerous district and appellate court decisions in its favor. The following is a non-exhaustive sample:

  1. Josephine Eshagian v. Olivia Hazin [No. B312167, November 14, 2022] (2nd Circuit Court of Appeals) (reversing the issuance of a Restraining Order)
  2. Arthur Lee Alfred II v. The Walt Disney Company 388 F.Supp.3d 1174, 2019 WL 3495847 (9th Circuit 2020)
  3. Brittle v. Time Warner, Inc., 2017 WL 3047058 (E.D.Va June 20, 2017) (denying Motion to Dismiss)
  4. Van Dyke v. Lions Gate Entm’t, Inc., No. SACV 13-454-JLS, 2014 WL 12470017 (C.D. Cal. July 23, 2014) (denying Motion for Summary Judgement)
  5. Van Dyke v. Lions Gate Entm’t, Inc., No. SACV 13-454-JLS ANX, 2014 WL 950765 (C.D. Cal. Mar. 11, 2014) (denying Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings)
  6. Fontana v. Harra, No. CV 12-10708 CAS JCGX, 2013 WL 990014 (C.D. Cal. Mar. 12, 2013) (granting Motion to Dismiss)
  7. Sepe v. Sepe-Wiesenfeld, No. B23687, 2013 WL 1834735 (Cal. Ct. App. May 2, 2013) (reversing dismissal of case)
  8. Kabehie v. Zoland, 102 Cal. App. 4th 513 (2002) (affirming grant of Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings on the issue of copyright preemption)

Mr. Lowe is admitted to practice before the State Bar of the State of California (1985), the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California (1986), the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals (1989), and the United States Supreme Court (2014). He is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law (1984), Vanderbilt University (1980), and Greenwich High School, Greenwich, CT (1976).

Recent Blog Posts

Recommendations

Kevin Nguyen
Steven’s legal counsel and business expertise has been a great help to our business. Great team to work with and highly recommended. I guess miracles do exist… I never expected this outcome.
I guess miracles do exist… I never expected this outcome. Thank you for the excellent work you’ve done. I am sure we will work together in the future. Steven T. Lowe and the Lowe Law firm negotiated my TV series idea theft case, settling amicably with a major network without even having to file a suit.
Over the past 15 years, while living in Hollywood, California, I’ve worked in the film business as an actor, writer, producer, director, editor, and camera operator. This has caused me to need a top-notch attorney and firm to provide well-crafted contracts to personally protect me, my company, and my other assets, as well as to provide sound advice as a friend, especially where emotions of the business might cloud one’s judgement. One particular case stands out amongst the many. In 2011, Steven T. Lowe and the Lowe Law firm negotiated my TV series idea theft case, settling amicably with a major network without even having to file a suit. That rarely happens unless a firm has juice. When the stakes are high, go with Lowe.

– Mark B.

Jonathan Hodges on behalf of The Hodges Family and Hollywood Sound Recorders.
On behalf of my family, I want to express how grateful we are for all the hard work the team has put in during the past few weeks. I can’t put into words what it felt like after reading what was filed today. To actually know lawyers are doing everything they can to represent us is exhilarating. I’m proud to have each and everyone of you on the team. Hopefully it works out, but at least I know we are doing our best. THANK YOU.

– Jonathan Hodges on behalf of The Hodges Family and Hollywood Sound Recorders.

Steve Syatt
Steven’s legal counsel and business expertise is pivotal to us in helping build our company, and we are deeply grateful to him and his team. Kent A.
Lowe & Associates were recommended to me by Attorney Howard E. King when seeking the need for legal counsel and representation. After initial consultation, their advice was always in my best interest as they strived to help me see resolutions from several legal perspectives considering my input as well. Communication was particularly responsive including Paralegal Office Manager, Shanette Avery, who returned my calls almost immediately. Associate Attorney Aleksandra Hilvert kindly worked to expedite my case allowing for a quick resolution. Therefore, I would highly recommend this professional team to represent anyone in legal matters that would require their expertise.

– Kent A.

Elsa Ramo, Entertainment Attorney
I endorse this lawyer [Steven T. Lowe]. Any time I have a client in need of a litigator, he is where I send them. Yaasmyn Fula
First retained Steven in 1997 and received excellent legal analysis and success for 20 years. In my lawsuit against Death Row Records, Interscope Records, Estate of Tupac Shakur, et. al., his interpretation of laws and methodical negotiation style was instrumental in securing royalties for my deceased son Kadafi, who performed with Tupac. He is a staunch advocate for the people especially the little guy knocked around by corporate giants. Truly the people’s lawyer providing access to courts and a platform for more equitable laws. His firm legal analysis and moral compass enhanced my legal case with resounding success.

– Yaasmyn Fula

Karen Kruper
It’s tricky finding a lawyer that you like enough to hire, trust enough to go for the throat and can be available to outline options in a language non lawyers can understand. Steven Lowe was a recommendation and from our first conversation, I felt confident that he could stickhandle my case(s) effectively. But the real gem in all this, is Mario Goluža – who is a Senior Law Clerk with Lowe & Associates. Mario has kept me sane, updating me regularly, and answering the myriad of questions that arose once the case was in process. Is this the new standard for the law profession? I hope so. If not, you’re at the wrong firm.

– Karen Kruper

Samuel J. Fox, Esq., Fox Law Group
Steven and Kris are top notch strategists, thinkers and lawyers and they come without big egos and big law firm billing practices. So I have a deep appreciation of their value