Breaking into sports law

Take advantage of professional resources, prof. says

—By Kelly Kidwell

USC Law Professor Vered Yakovee ’02 told students at a lunchtime talk on March 10 how they could incorporate sports into their legal careers. The discussion, “Breaking into Sports Law,” was hosted by the USC Sports Law Society.

Professor Yakovee recommended students join organizations such as the Sports Lawyers Association and the American Bar Association's Forum on the Entertainment and Sports Industries. Both groups hold conferences where students can meet professionals who work in the industry.

“When you’re still a student, these conferences are a chance to meet people and see if you like the industry,” Yakovee said. “People there know students need to come up and ask questions, so most people will enjoy talking to you as long as you’re polite.”

Members of the Sports Lawyers Association also get discounts on subscriptions to Sports Business Daily and the Sports Business Journal. Yakovee suggested join the Sports Lawyers Association so they can enjoy the journals.

“These are great resources to give you an idea of what’s going on in the industry,” Yakovee said.

Professor Yakovee also discussed her Sports Law class as an opportunity for students interested in sports law to learn more about the industry. This is the first year teaching the course for the 2002 USC Law graduate, who has her own practice with both sports and music clients.

“It’s a great class,” said Ephraim Walker ’09. “She brings in a lot of speakers, so you get to meet a lot of people in the industry.”