LOCAL ATTORNEYS CAST IN NBC REALITY SHOW

What do you get when your firm brings suit against ABC for theft of intellectual property? A role on an NBC reality show (or
“alternative drama,” as the network calls it)? CITATIONS learned in an exclusive interview with Ventura County attorneys-cum-reality show-contestants that what really counts in Hollywood is being in the right place at the right time, and not being intimidated by the interview process.

You may have recognized two of the twelve contestants on the season premiere of “The Law Firm,” David E. Kelley’s first venture into reality television. Local attorney contestants cast on the show included Anika Harvey, who interned with the Ventura County District Attorney’s office, and Jason Adams, a partner in Adams Noblin Vrataric, LLP. The show, which aired on NBC, was moved this month to the Bravo Network. The show uses a Court TV-meets-Apprentice elimination format.

Contestants represent clients in legally binding conflicts while competing for a $250,000 prize. Jason’s firm’s website, anvlaw.com, not only describes his firm’s ABC litigation, but also links to the NBC show’s official website. Jason and Anika gave CITATIONS an exclusive interview soon after the show was first aired. We were joined by Jill Carmen, a network public relations representative. CITATIONS began with a question about the contestants’ contractual obligations.

Jill, must NBC “chaperone” all interviews with this show’s contestants?

Jill Carmen: We try. As with all reality shows, contestants are under certain obligations as to what they can and can’t say; that’s standard fare for reality shows. But we are also able to
help with certain production questions that the contestants may not be able to answer.

JASON’S VIEW

Jason, how does a Ventura County lawyer get cast in a major network reality show? Did you mention the ABC litigation in your application?

Jason: No. In fact, I was in the middle of jury trial in Los Angeles, when a colleague mentioned that he needed a ride to his try-out at NBC studios. As I waited for him at the studios, casting people were walking back and forth, and encouraged me to fill out an application. It was a full three inches thick and I was busy with the trial. But I took it and did my best. The next day, in a lunch break from preparing witnesses, I faxed in
the app. Next thing I knew, I was in a series of interviews, psych evaluations. Then I had a microphone taped to my back and I was on TV.

Why do you think you make the cut?

Jason: I had a great time with the interview, unlike other applicants who I saw studying note cards. I acted like myself instead of being too serious.

Please describe your experience.

Jason: It was a once in a lifetime opportunity that fell in my lap. I had a great time and learned a lot from some great lawyers. [Ed.: Trial attorney and law professor Roy Black serves as the show’s “Managing Partner” and Trump-style eliminator.] The show’s premise is these are actual clients and cases that need attention. We spent 22 hours a day working with clients and witnesses, looking up statutes, and preparing for trial.

In the first segment, your team won your client’s suit, but you were the first to be eliminated. How has your life changed since then? Have you been on a press junket?

Jason: Actually, this is my first interview. But I feel a “juggernaut” effect kind of happening. For example, I have been getting looks at Starbucks as the show builds in notoriety.

How did your fellow partners feel about your participation in the show?

Jason: They were very supportive and appreciated what an opportunity it was for me, even though it meant that I would be unavailable for up to 5 or 6 weeks.

How did the “clients,” whose matters were decided in the show, seem to like the experience?

Jason: Our clients had a great experience because their cases were handled much faster than they would have been in a traditional court setting.

Is this a good show for lawyers to watch?

Jason: Yes, absolutely – lawyers in particular will find it educational. Great cross-examinations, great closings – stuff you pay for in seminars.

Any application advice for Ventura County attorneys who want to be on a reality show?

Jason: Be yourself times 10.

The above information is intended for general information only. For specific legal advice, contact your legal counsel.

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