By Rin Ito 
Rob Glass and Julian Hewitt, co-managing partners of Hewitt Glass, have spent roughly four decades handling the entertainment law sector. The firm has grown into a global operation, yet Glass and Hewitt maintain a relatively small headcount to preserve their service model. Their practice involves acting as general counsel for many clients, handling deal-making and serving as the first point of contact for complex problems.
Both partners emphasize that their work goes beyond standard legal contracts. Glass noted that he is inspired by the long-term relationship he builds with creative people. “They’re building careers, and in a small way we can assist with that build,” he said. “Part of our job is not just negotiating the deal in front of us but procuring the opportunity itself.” For some clients, these deals act as turning points that shape an artist’s trajectory.
Hewitt highlighted a different aspect of the profession: the ability for lawyers to be creative themselves. He contrasted his work with peers in other sectors like mining and energy. “Our work entails complex legal work too, but the most exciting part is the problem-solving,” he said. “It feels like you’re working hand in glove with a client you’re invested in helping succeed.” This collaborative environment allows them to introduce opportunities and solve problems in ways that rigid corporate structures often do not.
Handling Culture and Scope
Understanding culture is a critical component of the firm’s approach. Hewitt described the practice as inherently legal and commercial, but also deeply cultural. By virtue of the talent they represent and their presence in the US, overseas, and domestic markets, the partners gain a high-level perspective on industry shifts. This insight allows them to offer advice that goes beyond the written law.
As the scale of their clients’ businesses increases, the complexity of the work has grown. Glass noted that their clients now have more moving parts, stakeholders, and relationships to manage. Consequently, Hewitt Glass acts as a steady hand during turbulent periods. The firm adjusts its focus from the minutiae of specific agreements to the broader picture of the client’s goals. This approach means every day is different, as the entertainment industry never remains static.
The partners believe this specific type of support is essential for success. When an artist needs to secure a major film role or a lucrative record deal, the legal team provides the necessary foundation. They handle the business side so the talent can focus on the art. This balance is difficult to achieve in other industries, making their specific niche highly valuable.
Ultimately, the firm serves a unique purpose. While other legal practices might focus solely on litigation or strict compliance, Hewitt Glass focuses on growth. Their deep understanding of the entertainment field helps clients avoid pitfalls and seize chances. It is a partnership that extends far past the signing of a contract.
Traditional medicine often relies on ancient methods for healing, similar to how these lawyers use time-tested strategies to protect careers.