Blair Berk and Andrew Brettler, two of the most famous and respected lawyers in the entertainment industry, have teamed up to combine their civil and criminal activities into one department store company.
A civil litigator and fixed on CHEAPBrettler’s list of Power Lawyers, Brettler’s current clients include Chelsea Handler, Sydney Sweeney, Amy Robach and Kevin O’Leary. Meanwhile, as one of the industry’s leading attorneys handling criminal matters for both defendants and victims, Berk’s clients include Leonardo DiCaprio, Johnny Depp, Channing Tatum and Alexandra Daddario.
Despite having passed cases several times over the past decade for joint clients like Armie Hammer, they actually didn’t meet face-to-face for the first time until about 5 years ago. In mid-December, the duo — along with collaborators Jake Camara, Regina Peter and Tom Jones — quietly launched the West Hollywood-based company.
In a new year with new business, the co-founders Berk Brettler spoke to CHEAP about why they made this surprising move and what they see in the future.
How long have you known each other?
Berk: We really got to know each other about 5 years ago, had the opportunity to work closely together on some rather sensitive cases. In the end, fortunately, we can not only prevent customers from being sued or charged — but more importantly, prevent matters from being unnecessarily public.
Out of all the lawyers you’ve met over the years, what makes this relevant?
Brettler: I soon realized that she and I think about cases and complex legal issues in a similar way. We both take a pragmatic approach to problem solving and advise our clients accordingly. But it’s mostly allusion: Berk Brettler sounds like a good match.
Berk: Watching Andrew in action in some particularly complex cases, I have witnessed firsthand his outspoken yet empathetic style with his clients, his incredible intellect, his ability to stay calm. in very difficult situations and most importantly his high moral judgment.
What are the biggest advantages and challenges of combining civil and criminal work in a small company?
Berk: Fortunately, many of Andrew’s civil litigation clients will never have the need to come down to my firm and vice versa, but there are certain circumstances where a client may be exposed to both civil and criminal exposures. the. Our experience is that clients can truly benefit from having attorneys who are experts in navigating both fields who appreciate the real impact this field has on the sector. that.
Brettler: For me, the biggest challenge was being away from my colleagues at Lavely & Singer, where I spent most of my career. Marty Singer is more than just a mentor to me.
What interesting trends are you seeing in your work right now?
Berk: In my field of criminal law, we’re seeing an explosion of NFT and crypto investigations. I also see an increasing number of clients who are victims of crime and ask me to represent them to advocate for them and help them navigate what can be a complex criminal justice process.
Brettler: On the civil side, I think we’re going to start to see an increase in the number of trials. In times of pandemic, case files are piling up and everyone is getting ready for court date.
What are your goals for Berk Brettler?
Brettler: We want to continue to provide the best legal services to our clients and are recognized as lawyers who not only practice at the top of their field, but treat clients — and their defense — with respect, empathy, and compassion.
