Suggestions
Kirk T. Schroder
Experienced Entertainment Attorney; Former Chair @ ABA Forum on Entertainment & Sports; Co-Editor, The Essential Guide to Entertainment Law; Former President of the Virginia Board of Education; Entertainment Law Lecturer
Kirk T. Schroder is an experienced entertainment and arts law attorney who currently serves as a Board Member and Vice Chair at *Seraphic.34 He is a partner at the Schroder Davis law firm and has over 20 years of experience providing legal counsel and representation to clients in various sectors, including film, television, music, and literary industries.35
Professional Background
Kirk T. Schroder has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for his work in entertainment law and is rated as an "AV Preeminent" lawyer by Martindale-Hubbell, their highest rating for attorneys.1 He currently chairs the American Bar Association's Entertainment and Sports Law Section, having been elected by his peers in the entertainment and sports law profession.1
Education and Affiliations
Schroder holds impressive academic credentials:
- Ph.D. from the University of Virginia
- J.D. from the University of Richmond
- B.A. and B.S.B.A. from the University of Richmond1
He has served in various leadership roles, including:
- Former Chair of the American Bar Association Forum on Entertainment & Sports Industries
- Former President of the Virginia Board of Education (1998-2002)1
Legal Expertise
Schroder's legal practice encompasses several areas:
- Counsel for film production companies and financiers
- Representation of award-winning independent filmmakers and producers
- Extensive knowledge of legal and business aspects of filmmaking
- Counsel to Universal Pictures for over a decade
- Representation of creative talent such as writers, directors, and actors
- Significant practice in public and private art law1
Additional Involvement
Beyond his legal practice, Schroder is actively involved in education and children's issues. He has served on boards of distinguished educational institutions and has been recognized for his contributions to education reform in Virginia.12
Kirk T. Schroder's LinkedIn profile can be found under the username kirk-t-schroder-0574526, where he shares professional updates and accomplishments.36
Highlights
A TRUE STORY
One of my favorite people in the entertainment legal field, Victoria Traube, once graciously granted me an informational interview that left a lasting impact on my career.
Many years ago, in New York City, I attended the PLI Entertainment Law Conference as an aspiring entertainment lawyer. Vicky was presenting on a panel alongside Michael Ruddell, another one of my legal heroes. Summoning the nerve, I approached Vicky afterward and asked for an informational interview. To my delight, she agreed, despite her busy schedule at ICM.
During my visit to ICM’s reception area, I even had a brief encounter with Tommy Tune—but I digress. Vicky had no obligation to meet with me that day, yet she was incredibly generous with her time and advice, providing invaluable insights that guided my journey.
Fast forward about 15 years, when I had the honor of becoming Chair of the American Bar Association's Forum on Entertainment & Sports Law. Remembering her kindness, I appointed Vicky to a key position, despite stiff competition from other highly qualified Broadway theater lawyers. It was a small way to repay her for the support she gave me when I needed it most (and yes, she was absolutely the best person for the role).
As Vicky now retires from her remarkable career in the Broadway legal and business theater world, I want to express my deep admiration for her kindness, intelligence, and unwavering class. What may have seemed like a small act of generosity to her had a huge impact on me.
Thank you, Vicky, for your friendship and for being an extraordinary role model. Congratulations on an amazing career—your legacy will continue to inspire. #theaterlawyer #grateful
I am thrilled to see former law clerks excelling in their careers. Matthew Pangle has been recognized as a rising star in entertainment law by Best Lawyers in America. I am extremely proud of his achievements. #entertainmentlaw
