Mission

New Jersey has always been an inspiration for artists and entertainers. Painters, musicians, and dancers have found their muse in the Garden State for centuries. The painter George Inness was from New Jersey, and Winslow Homer used our beloved Jersey shore as the subject of many of his paintings. Over a hundred years ago the art of the motion picture was born in Thomas Edison’s Black Maria Studio, in West Orange.

But today New Jersey artists face more legal issues than ever before. The internet has breathed new life into copyright and trademark infringement claims. The proliferation of cable channels means more independent producers are looking for production contracts. Newark and Jersey City gentrification has reduced the amount of affordable housing available to the struggling artist.

In short, New Jersey artists and arts organizations have a growing need for accessible attorneys and legal education. Only by safeguarding their legal interests can artists hope to enrich New Jersey’s cultural and economic community.

That’s why New Jersey Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts was formed. We help artists and arts organizations through pro bono attorney referrals and legal education.

Call us if you need help or are eager to help out. Whether you’re an artist, an arts organization, or an attorney seeking to help New Jersey’s artists, we ask you to reach out to us and help us to build an empowered New Jersey artistic community.