California Lawyer For the Arts

California Lawyers for the Arts (CLA) is a non-profit organization established in 1974 to provide legal services and support to artists and the creative arts community. Formed in 1987 by the merger of Bay Area Lawyers for the Arts and Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts-Los Angeles, CLA operates as a statewide organization across California.

The organization offers a range of services designed to empower artists and arts organizations. These include arts advocacy, alternative dispute resolution services for artists and entertainers, and educational programs featuring workshops and seminars on legal and business topics. Specific topics covered in educational programs include contracts, agreements, licensing, trademark, and the business of art. CLA also provides Lawyer Referral & Information Services to help artists, arts organizations, and inventors find qualified legal counsel for their arts or innovation-related legal questions. Additionally, it runs career development programs focused on building careers in the creative sector. CLA aims to strengthen the arts sector for thriving communities throughout California.