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Lindsay Gunn Spiller

Intellectual property Attorney at San Francisco, CA

5.0   47 reviews

Licensed for 36 years

Free consultation

About Lindsay

Learn Lindsay’s areas of practice.

LINDSAY SPILLER IS A SAN FRANCISCO BUSINESS ATTORNEY AND FOUNDER OF SPILLER LAW, A LEADING BUSINESS, ENTERTAINMENT AND ESTATE PLANNING LAW PRACTICE SERVING CLIENTS IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, LOS ANGELES, AND THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA. WE OFFER FREE CONSULTATIONS.

Lindsay Spiller is the founder and principal attorney at Spiller Law, a transactional law practice with an expanding roster of regional, national, and international business, entertainment, media, sports, and estate planning clients. It has built its reputation by establishing strong, honest relationships with its clients and by serving them as a trusted legal advisor.

 

Although a majority of my clients are either in LA or San Francisco, my practice is international in scope with clients also in Italy, England, and France.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 36 years
State CA
Status Active
Acquired 1989
Updated 12/04/2022
State DC
Status Good Standing
Acquired 1988
Updated 06/08/2022
State PA
Status Retired
Acquired 1986
Updated 02/26/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Lindsay

Spiller Law
595 Pacific Avenue
Fourth Floor
San Francisco, CA, 94133

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  47 customer reviews
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Posted by Jennifer | June 13, 2012
Great Advisor
Lindsay helped me in the early stages of the formation of my business entity. His expert assistance was a tremendous help and I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a creative and caring attorney.
Posted by Josh | May 25, 2010
Rave Review of Lindsay Spiller
Lin Spiller is, by a wide margin, the best attorney I have ever worked with (and I've had some excellent lawyers). He is rigorous, totally ethical, a joy to talk with, and supremely dedicated to my interests as his client.
Posted by Phil | March 9, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Knowledgeable and helpful!
Lindsay when above and beyond when I contacted him for help. He answered all my questions and helped guide me in the right direction. A great person and resource to have in the film business. Thank you!
Posted by Robert | February 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Entertainment Law
Mr. Spiller was more than impressive during our interactions. He helped me to grasp how to employ the documents he built for me and helped me to understand a few core concepts of my own business better. Every document I requested was straightforward to navigate and was finished before the deadline. The revisions requested were few, and when made, they fit my instructions to the finite detail. After having a few bad experiences, I have found a great attorney that has added to my knowledge, business, and future. Mr. Spiller is great plain and simple!
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Response from Lindsay Spiller March 6, 2023
Thank you for this very kind review, Robert. Happy to have helped!
Posted by anonymous | January 11, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Business formation
I contacted Spiller Law regarding my LLC entity formation. I spoke with Mr. Spiller and you could tell right away his knowledge on business law formation was second to none. He answered all my questions and helped get my company formed successfully. Thanks for all your help . Eric Coombs
Response from Lindsay Spiller January 12, 2023
Thank you, Eric, for the kind review. Glad to have helped you.
Posted by Nicholas | September 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Knowledgeable, Personable
As a professional writer, I've worked with Lindsay to draft deals and develop contracts for original IPs in the entertainment industry - specifically for video games. I couldn't be happier with his services. He always uses our time respectfully and efficiently and brings both extensive experience and a robust knowledge of entertainment law to the table. I've been consistently impressed by his commitment to ethics and attention to detail - qualities to look for in an excellent lawyer. On top of all of that, he's a great guy who takes a genuine interest in all of his clients. It's no surprise to me he's so highly rated!
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Response from Lindsay Spiller September 25, 2022
Thank you for your very kind review, Nick. I look forward to helping you going forward.
Posted by Mariana Givens | September 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Self-Employed
Happy to say….meeting Lindsay was purely accidental via Google Search. Two years later, Lindsay’s firm has not disappointed. He continues to maintain a professional image and committed to serving clients with utmost respect on both sides; his work ethic is unprecedented and I feel confident that he has my best interest at heart. Thank you, Lindsay
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Response from Lindsay Spiller September 25, 2022
Thank you, Mariana, for your very kind review. I've enjoyed working with you!
Posted by Chris | September 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
More than a great attorney
I have used Lindsay in every area of his practice. He did the estate plan for my wife and me. He has set up LLC’s for both of my businesses. He also advised and assisted me with clearances as well as a recommendation for E&O insurance for my documentary film. In every case, I find him to be thorough, thoughtful and helpful in his guidance. On top of that he is a pleasure to work with. As an added bonus, he brings to the table not only a network of great creators and business people, but has managed to turn that network into a community of friends. I highly recommend a conversation with him. I’d be surprised if it doesn’t lead to something special whether you choose to work with him or not.
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Response from Lindsay Spiller September 25, 2022
Deeply appreciate your kind review, Chris. Feel very lucky to have you as a client and friend.
Posted by Larry | September 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Artist/Writer/Game Developer/Business Owner
Lindsay Spiller not only understands the law, but he also understands the dynamics of business. The goal in making successful deals is a combination of skills, negotiating instincts, and realistically understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both parties. Lindsay understands how to maneuver through the complexities of the entertainment industry. I highly recommend using Lindsay Spiller for your legal adviser.
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Response from Lindsay Spiller September 25, 2022
Thank you for your very kind review, Larry. Alway happy to help you.
Posted by Michael | September 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Independent Videographer
I am an independent videographer who had a client that refused to pay a large invoice for work that I provided. Lindsay was able to quickly get the invoice paid. His knowledge of the applicable laws made this an easy experience. I recommend him whole heartedly!
Posted by Bill | September 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Social Media Manager
I met Lindsay through one of his Friday morning coffees and I always found his ability to take complex legal concepts and explain them in easily understood terms to be outstanding. That, and he's really a nice guy who also knows how to take care of business (nice to you, maybe not so nice to the person you're fighting against, which is a good thing :) . He offers 30 min consults through his website too, so you can chat with him initially via Zoom if you prefer. Strongly recommended.
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Posted by Menon | January 26, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very helpful and kind
Mr. Lindsay was too expensive for my purposes but referred me to another resource and took his time understanding my project before doing that. Thank you, Lindsay!
Posted by Chris | December 7, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
I'm looking for a reason to hire Lindsay, even if just for more conversation!
I had a consultation with Lindsay regarding an LLC formation. He was incredibly personable and knowledgeable, even though my business was outside his areas of expertise. He suggested that I would benefit from hiring a lawyer who was more specifically familiar with the particularities of real estate development and followed up on the SAME DAY with personal recommendations. I'm only half joking when I say that I'm looking for another reason to hire him ;).
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Posted by SK | November 23, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
I wonder if he's that nice if he's sitting across from you.
Had a consultation with Lindsay about including IP in my book after I'd already contacted the license holder, which might have muddled things up a bit if it weren't for his knowledgeable and straightforward advice. Additionally he is very personable and shows real personal interest. I would have absolute faith in him as my representative.
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Posted by Edmon | November 22, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great service
Lindsay was very helpful, even in a field outside of his primary expertise. He's answered my questions and gave me some great advice. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
Posted by Kamahli-g | November 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
best in di business
Respect to Lindsay Spiller at Spiller Law Best in California, Don’t see which lawyer to test am so great full
Posted by Elisa | May 22, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Will recommend to everyone
I had a consultation about setting up an S-Corp. Lindsay was very nice, listened to all of my concerns, answered all of my questions and guided me towards the best decision for me and my business at this time. I did not move forward in creating an scorp only because I do not need it at this time and Lindsay was very honest and upfront about the reasons for not doing it as it would not benefit me. I had talked to previous attorneys who were very pushy, seemed irritated when I asked the same questions and just wanted me to sign a contract to get started. With Lindsay I feel like I received high quality service, he was nice and easy to talk to, and gave me the best advice. I will definitely recommend everyone to him and if I need to create an scorp in the future, he will be the one I will go to for his services. Thanks Lindsay!
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Response from Lindsay Spiller May 24, 2021
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a nice review. I really appreciate it, Elisa.
Posted by Kegan | May 21, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Helpful and knowledgeable
Lindsay Spiller helped me solve a matter I normally wouldn’t have the courage to resolve. He really showed me my rights as artist and gave insight on my concerns. I really look forward to reaching out and working with him again. Thank you.
Response from Lindsay Spiller May 24, 2021
Thank you for your very kind review, Kegan. Please let me know if I can help you in the future.
Posted by Flora | April 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Transparent and communicative entertainment lawyer!
Lindsay is an amazing, trustworthy, transparent, and communicative entertainment lawyer! I'm a recent grad starting out my career in entertainment and animation in Los Angeles, so the prospect of hiring an attorney was overwhelming. During the free consultation call, Lindsay took the time to explain how the attorney process works and to give me contact info for other great lawyers who may have been able to give me a discount from California Lawyers for the Arts. Considering the hardships of graduating college and starting my career in animation during a worldwide pandemic, this meant a lot to me and showed great character in a lawyer I hadn't yet hired. After hiring Lindsay, he responded back almost immediately every day, and was a great help in understanding my Talent Release Form and Service Agreement contract for a corporate marketing campaign in LA. I'd highly recommend Spiller Law any day!
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Response from Lindsay Spiller April 8, 2021
Thank you, Flora! It was a pleasure to work with you on your matter.
Posted by RAY | April 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A JOB WELL DONE
Lindsay Spiller prepared our Living Trust, Wills, and other related documents. He did so carefully and good-naturedly, as we vacillated over our decisions. Throughout the process, Lindsay was always available to answer our questions and he responded promptly to our emails. The documents arrived via email (as required due to COVID). This gave us the opportunity to read the documents thoroughly, which led to more questions for Lindsay, which he patiently answered, sometimes doing research in order to respond accurately regarding the legal nuances of the wording. When we took our documents to the notary for signing, even she commented on now complete and well organized everything was.
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Response from Lindsay Spiller April 8, 2021
Thank you for the very kind comments, Ray and Dorothy! It was my pleasure to help you with your estate plan.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 20 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 395-495 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Spiller Law
  • 2006 - Present

Education

  • Georgetown Univ Law Center
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1985
  • Univ of California Berkeley
  • AB (with Distinction)
  • 1980

Legal Cases

  • Negotiated Worldwide Music License Agreement with Beatles and Rolling Stones
  • Successfully negotiated the "first of its kind" license deals.
  • Resolved Dispute between Feature Film Production and the Directors' Guild of America
  • Successfully resolved matter so that the Film Production could proceed and without any penalties to Production Company.
  • Negotiated Multimillion-dollar Merger and Acquisition of Major Sporting Event Company
  • Successful sale of company
View all legal cases

Associations

  • California Lawyers for the Arts
  • Attorney/Advisor
  • 2006 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Forum Committee on the Entertainment and Sports Industries
  • Member
  • 2010 - 2012

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Entertainment Lawyers in State of California
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Entertainment Lawyers in State of California
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2014

Speaking Engagements

  • CLA Filmmakers Workshop
  • The Business of Making and Distributing Film
  • 2010
  • 1031 Exchange Conference
  • Estate Planning for the Real Estate Investor
  • 2010
  • Northern California Escrow Association Annual Meeting
  • Estate Planning - Simplified
  • 2009
  • CLA - Filmmakers Workshop
  • The Business of Film Production
  • 2009
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)
Given (8)
Endorse Lindsay
Entertainment Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Not only is Lindsey experienced and knowledgeable, but he is a genuinely good person. You can tell that he cares for his clients and is invested in their success."
Entertainment Attorney | Apr 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I've known Lin for a number of years now and have also worked with him on various entertainment projects. He is a rare breed among attorneys. While he clearly knows his craft and guides his clients with expertise, he also does so while remaining gracious and genuine with all parties involved, including clients, opposing counsel and others. This expertise combined with a very rare persona has recently led me to suggest Lin as counsel for a party for which a current client is negotiating a film joint venture with. With just a bit of research and one phone call, they quickly became interested in bringing Lin on board. Now I can look forward to working across the table with him as well!"
Entertainment Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Lindsay Spiller provides a crucial service in the entertainment industry. He knows the business of entertainment and entertainment law; he knows the "players" which enables him to promote his clients' interests. He can get a project into production. I endorse Lindsay Spiller!"
Entertainment Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Lindsay for several years and we often consult with each other regarding transactional and litigated entertainment matters. Lindsay is sincerely dedicated to the needs of his clients and as a practice goes the extra mile to ensure they get what they need. This, combined with an attention to detail and a tenacious attitude when needed makes him an attorney I would be happy to work with again in the future."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Lin Spiller is a bright, creative attorney who serves creative clients most effectively. He thinks both outside and inside the box. He is a skilled negotiator. When needed, he assembles teams of lawyers and other professionals to meet the needs of his clients,"
Entertainment Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Family member
"I have known Lindsay Spiller for over 40 years, and as a friend and fellow attorney I have followed his legal career from the beginning. I am not surprised by the favorable endorsements he has received from his clients on this Avvo website. Read them and you will understand why clients appreciate his advice and counsel. As an attorney for over 33 years, it has been my experience that many attorneys lack the social skills and empathy that clients need when confronted with a serious legal problem. Lindsay brought those skills and qualities to his legal career. His experience, expertise, and ability to succinctly communicate verbally and in writing makes him an effective advocate for his clients."
View more endorsements
Entertainment
Entertainment
Entertainment
Entertainment