The rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights has transformed college sports, giving student-athletes the power to monetize their brands. While NIL presents massive opportunities, it also introduces legal risks that can jeopardize eligibility, finances, and long-term career goals.
Jay Arnesen, Managing Director and CEO of Elevate Legal Services, PLLC, is a trusted authority in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) law, representing high school and college athletes across Florida and the U.S. With years of hands-on experience in NIL contracts, Jay is the go-to attorney for drafting, negotiating, and litigating high-value athlete endorsement deals. Based in Boca Raton, he is regularly sought out by sports agents and athletic programs for his expertise in complex NIL matters, including brand protection, trademark strategy, and sponsorship agreement structuring. Jay’s deep understanding of NCAA compliance and Florida NIL laws makes him a leading force in protecting the rights and revenue of student-athletes. When your future earnings and personal brand are on the line, Jay Arnesen is the NIL lawyer athletes rely on to get it right.
At Elevate Legal Services, PLLC, our Boca Raton-based law firm helps student-athletes across Florida and the U.S. navigate the NIL landscape with confidence. Our attorneys specialize in NIL contract review, negotiation, compliance, and brand protection, ensuring your deals work in your favor, not against you.
Ready to secure your NIL rights? Call 561-770-3335 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
Why NIL Contracts Require Legal Protection
Many student-athletes rush into NIL agreements without understanding the fine print. Unfortunately, this can lead to:
- Unfair or hidden terms
- Eligibility issues
- Loss of intellectual property
- Damaged reputations
Below are real-world examples that highlight the importance of having an NIL attorney on your team.
5 Real NIL Contract Mistakes (and What You Can Learn From Them)
1. Ambiguous Compensation Terms
What Happened: A college basketball star signed a deal with unclear payout terms. Payments were delayed, and expected bonuses were never delivered due to vague contract language.
Legal Takeaway: Contracts must define how much, when, and under what conditions you’re paid. An attorney ensures fair compensation and clear deliverables.
2. Overly Broad Exclusivity Clauses
What Happened: An athlete unknowingly signed an exclusivity clause preventing them from accepting other sports-related endorsements, even those more lucrative.
Legal Takeaway: Exclusivity should be limited by scope, geography, and time. Always have a lawyer negotiate these terms to preserve future opportunities.
3. Unauthorized NIL Use After Contract Ends
What Happened: A brand continued using an athlete’s image on merchandise and marketing materials even after the deal expired, costing the athlete potential new revenue.
Legal Takeaway: Protect your NIL rights with clear licensing terms and expiration dates. An attorney ensures that your intellectual property isn’t exploited.
4. NCAA & State Law Violations
What Happened: A swimmer accepted an NIL deal that violated Florida NIL law and NCAA rules, resulting in suspension and loss of scholarship.
Legal Takeaway: NIL contracts must align with F.S. §1006.74 and NCAA regulations. Your eligibility depends on compliance—legal guidance is non-negotiable.
5. Excessive Promotional Demands
What Happened: A gymnast agreed to an NIL deal that required excessive travel, social media posts, and in-person appearances, interfering with school and practice.
Legal Takeaway: Legal counsel helps balance your academic, athletic, and promotional responsibilities. Never agree to unrealistic demands without reviewing the workload first.
Key Legal Protections NIL Athletes Need
Here’s how Elevate Legal Services, PLLC, helps protect your brand and your future:
Contract Review & Negotiation
- Spot hidden clauses
- Secure favorable payment terms
- Define obligations and ownership
Compliance With NCAA & Florida Laws
- Avoid ineligibility due to violations
- Ensure deals follow F.S. §1006.74 and school guidelines
Intellectual Property & NIL Rights
- Trademark your name, logo, and slogans
- Prevent brands from reusing your image without consent
Dispute Resolution & Legal Defense
- Enforce your rights if a deal goes bad
- Resolve disputes through negotiation or litigation
Why Choose Elevate Legal Services, PLLC?
- Focused on Student-Athletes: We’ve helped D1 athletes, walk-ons, and rising high school stars.
- Experienced NIL Lawyers: We stay on top of legal developments and NCAA rule changes.
- Business-Minded Strategies: We protect your brand like a business—because it is one.
- Thorough Contract Review: We catch what you don’t see before you sign.
Final Thoughts: Your NIL Brand Deserves Legal Protection
As these real-life examples show, NIL contracts can go wrong fast without the right legal support. Whether you’re negotiating your first deal or signing with major sponsors, professional guidance is critical.
Don’t let a contract cost you your eligibility, money, or brand. Let Elevate Legal Services, PLLC, be your NIL legal team.
Call 561-770-3335 or email [email protected] today to protect your NIL rights and build your brand the right way.
