Pierson Recognized for Success in Advertising and Entertainment Law and Legal Work on Behalf of Local Artists
St. Louis Business Journal named Husch Blackwell Partner Gary A. Pierson to the 40 Under 40 class of 2012. The award honors 40 area leaders, chosen from more than 450 nominees, under the age of 40 for their accomplishments as business and community leaders. Pierson was recognized for his success in a diverse practice that spans traditional intellectual property, advertising and entertainment law.
Leader of the Advertising & Marketing practice group, Pierson counsels agencies, retailers, manufacturers and other marketers on claim substantiation, testimonials sweepstakes, e-commerce and social media promotions. He has handled numerous false advertising cases and proceedings before the National Advertising Division of the Better Business Bureau.
In the area of Intellectual Property law, Pierson helps clients acquire and protect trademarks, copyrights, patents, trade secrets, domain names and other intangible assets. He has also handled hundreds of intellectual property disputes, including litigation in federal courts around the country and in proceedings before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office.
In Entertainment & Media matters, Pierson advises and counsels artists, managers, writers, producers, record labels and filmmakers. He assists clients with setting up appropriate business structures and negotiates publishing agreements, recording contracts, management agreements and producer agreements. He is a frequent speaker on issues related to technology and its impact on the entertainment industry and teaches a course at Saint Louis University on copyright, music and new media. He will also present on intellectual property issues for the music industry at the South by Southwest Music Conference and Festival on March 15, 2012.
Within the St. Louis community, Pierson is a tireless supporter of the local music and arts scene, and has represented countless new and developing local artists. He is a member of the Board of Directors of St. Louis Volunteer Lawyers and Accountants for the Arts and has served as an advisor to numerous local arts organizations including Play:STL, The Chapel, STL Loud and a number of academic institutions.