Stephanie Iken, Attorney at Law

Working with a manager or booking agent can help you grow your career faster, but in Florida it is also one of the most common ways musicians end up in legal trouble. A bad contract, unclear expectations, or an unlicensed agent can lead to lost income and few options to fix it. The good news is that a little knowledge goes a long way. Here is what every Florida musician should know before signing with a representative.

1. Know the Law Before You Sign

Florida’s Talent Agency Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 468.401–468.432) requires anyone who finds paid work for artists, including booking live shows or appearances, to hold a state talent agency license unless they qualify for one of the narrow exemptions in § 468.403(4).

That means a licensed agent can book multiple acts and collect commissions. A manager can advise you and plan your career but not directly book or negotiate shows. You can book yourself, a family member can help, or a friend who represents only you may fall within the one-artist exemption.

If someone is taking a percentage of your gig income and is not licensed or exempt, you have a problem. Their agreement might be unenforceable, and they could be violating Florida law. You can verify a license on the Florida DBPR website: myfloridalicense.com.

2. Put Every Agreement in Writing

No matter how much you trust someone, never rely on verbal promises. Your written agreement should clearly state the scope of their work, for example “career advice only” or “booking for one artist.” It should describe payment terms, including how commissions or fees are calculated and when they are earned. It should include termination rights explaining how either party can end the relationship, and a clear start and end date. One year is common. Finally, include dispute resolution language describing what happens if things go wrong.

If you are unsure how to word any clause, it is worth having a Florida attorney review it. A short review is often cheaper than the cost of getting out of a bad contract.

3. Watch for These Red Flags

If you see any of the following, stop and get legal advice before signing:

• the person will not show you their DBPR license number,
• the agreement gives them power to collect all your payments and “pay you later,”
• the contract has no end date or automatically renews indefinitely,
• they want a percentage of everything you earn, or
• you are not allowed to see where your money goes.

A legitimate agent or manager should have no problem explaining their role, showing you their credentials, and putting everything in writing.

4. Keep Control of Your Work and Payments

The safest approach is to keep your income flowing directly to you, not to an agent’s or manager’s account. It is fine for a licensed agent to collect funds temporarily in a trust account, which is required by law, but in any other case, make sure you are the one getting paid first.

If a venue sends checks to your representative, ask to be copied on every invoice and deposit. Transparency is a non-negotiable part of a fair business relationship.

5. Get Out Gracefully if It Feels Wrong

If your representative is unlicensed, overreaching, or violating your agreement, you have options. Put your concerns in writing and be polite but firm. Check their DBPR status. If they should be licensed and are not, that is serious. Consult an attorney. You might be able to void the contract and recover unpaid earnings.

Florida law is on the artist’s side when it comes to unlicensed agents or unfair contracts. The hardest part is catching it early before it costs you more than money.

The Bottom Line

Good managers and agents make your career better. They respect your time, your talent, and the law. The bad ones count on confusion and handshake deals. Learn your rights, read before you sign, and never be afraid to ask questions. Your art is worth protecting, and the right people will respect that.

About the Author
Stephanie Iken is a Florida attorney who helps musicians and creative professionals understand and protect their rights. Her work focuses on practical legal guidance that helps artists build sustainable careers.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.