In the land of reggae music, comedy and several other genres that comprise Jamaica's entertainment landscape, it's hard to believe that there is a shortage of entertainment lawyers - those shrewd attorneys who ensure royalties are earned and that the creative material remains the property of the creators.

One of the few is Ron Young, who admits the shortage also leaves him baffled.

Young's eight-year practice of entertainment law is a marriage of his two major interests. He was involved in artiste development and event management and production prior to entering legal studies. He was one of the organisers of the Gin 'N' Juice party in 1992 and worked closely with Mr Lexx and Monster Shack.

"I got into law because I wanted to be an entertainment lawyer," Young said. "And I've been immersed in entertainment law from the beginning."

previous employment

After graduating from Norman Manley Law School in 2001, Young worked at esteemed law firm Myers, Fletcher and Gordon as an intellectual property and copyright lawyer. He subsequently was employed to Cable and Wireless Jamaica Limited as legal adviser, advising on all aspects of commercial and telecommunications law before starting his own practice last May with his uncle, Senator Arthur Williams.

So what exactly does entertainment law entail?

"I review contracts, make sure they represent my clients' interest. I give advice on income streams and look at how I can maximise income streams for my clients. I secure royalties and ensure creative material are copyrighted," said Young. "I am one aspect of an entertainer's army of supporters, but a vital cog in the wheel."

Young said a critical mistake breakthrough artistes make is ignoring the importance of a lawyer, especially a lawyer specialising in entertainment.

"It (getting the services of a lawyer) is probably the most important step," said Young. "Coming into the industry, these new artistes are bringing a lot of talent but no background in the business. They need someone to give them guidance on how contracts are formed, et cetera."

think it's unnecessary

Young said entertainers often avoid seeking legal advice because they either think it's not necessary or that they can't afford it.

"I do entertainment law because I love what I do - sometimes it doesn't even feel like a job. My focus isn't trying to get as much money as possible," he said. "Oftentimes, I don't get paid until my clients are paid."

Young's clients have included Richie Spice, Rootz Underground, T.O.K, Busy Signal, Tami Chynn and Ricardo 'Bibi' Gardner.

"Working with Ronald has been an eye-opening experience," Richie Spice said of Young.

"Ron explains everything in detail, he breaks it down so anyone can understand the situation and that makes for easier and more free decision making. He is always open to suggestions and doesn't present himself as knowing all or being the only one with a brain."