CAFTA Case List
Here is the list of arts-related pro bono opportunities that are currently seeking a referral through Colorado Attorneys for the Arts (CAFTA). Thanks for your interest in providing legal assistance to support Colorado’s artists, performers, cultural organizations and creative businesses.
If you are interested in taking on one of the CAFTA matters below, please contact CAFTA@cbca.org and reference the case # in the subject line.
Available CAFTA Matters
Updated March 12, 2025
#25019 [Trademark Registration]NEW
Client is a 501c3 nonprofit art collective. Client is seeking trademark protection for the name of their entity.
#25016 [Contract Dispute] NEW
Client is a model. Client is seeking legal assistance regarding a contract dispute with a modeling agency. In December 2024, Client signed with a modeling agency based in Utah with a franchise in Denver. Client was immediately unhappy and claims the modeling agency is a scam. Client believes the contract was unfair and unenforceable, including an NDA and possession of personal data. The contract states all legal matters must be handled in Utah and prohibits the Client from pursuing representative actions or contacting government agencies or industry bureaus, even in the case of misconduct or illegal practices by the agency. Client paid a $1,000 settlement to the agency to get out the contract, but still feels that their rights are violated and would like her money back.
#25009 [Copyright Counsel]
Client is an author. Client is seeking legal assistance to ensure that her novel does not infringe any trademark or copyrights and has the necessary permissions. Client’s novel has several references to a well-known rock band, including references to song lyrics, song titles and other elements of the band’s culture. Client is looking to self-publish her novel in spring 2025.
#25010 [Nonprofit Formation]
Client is an LLC business that operates a community dance and movement studio. Client is seeking legal assistance to convert all or part of the business to a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Client already has a fiscal sponsor relationship with a local nonprofit but believes they could do more and better pay their staff if they were able to have their non 501c3 nonprofit status.
#25006 [Music Copyright Infringement]
Client is in the music industry. Client is seeking legal assistance for alleged copyright infringement of a song he wrote and produced. The Client shared the song with a major recording label, and it was allegedly shared with a music producer who incorporated the Client’s song’s melodies, arrangements, and patterns into a hit song by a top artist. Client has a copyright registration for this original song. This situation happened in 2008.
*Client does not qualify for pro bono legal services. Client is hoping to find a contingency arrangement.
#24094 [Breach of Fiduciary Duty]
Client is an arts nonprofit organization in Colorado. Client is seeking legal assistance regarding a former Executive Director who allegedly made personal loans to the organization and now appears to be requesting repayment. The former Executive Director allegedly made personal loans without the Board of Directors’ knowledge, approval or documentation. The former Executive Director also allegedly disregarded other administrative duties for the organization and stepped down to a volunteer role earlier this year. It appears that the former Executive Director may have cashed a check from the organization for the amount of the loans at the end of November.
#24092 [Dispute Resolution]
Client is an artist and jewelry-maker. Client is selling her jewelry on consignment at a store located in California. Client is seeking legal assistance because the store has not paid her for three pieces of jewelry. The store claims that they were robbed and are past-due on paying the Client. There is a signed consignment agreement between the Client and the store.
#24081 [Nonprofit Formation]
Client is a state-certified Creative District in an urban neighborhood. Client has been operating under a nonprofit fiscal sponsor since 2017. As the organization has evolved, the Client’s board of directors would like to separate from the fiscal sponsor and become a standalone 501c3 nonprofit organization. The board feels the organization has sufficient capacity to be a standalone organization and having their own 501c3 status will offer more financial opportunities. Client is seeking legal assistance to facilitate this transition and the formation of their own 501c3 nonprofit entity.
Check out CAFTA’s Description of Pro Bono Services to learn more about the referral process and expectations for volunteer attorneys.
