Ken Sterling

With over 20 years of experience in media, tech, and law, I am passionate about empowering and representing artists and brands in the digital age. Having founded tech companies, digital agencies and a bank - I have a unique view of how business works and thrives.

Originally a techie (early hacker, Cisco CCNA and Microsoft MCSE), I have a unique understanding of the cyber world, AI and emerging technologies.

As an attorney at Sterling Media Law, I focus on media law, cyber law, business law, and real estate law - negotiating complex and creative deals. My mission is to help clients and partners achieve their goals and protect their interests in the fast-changing and competitive media and tech landscape.

University of Southern California Gould School of Law

Cyber Law Tech Law and Media Law

Honors: Deans Merit Award Scholarship USC Gould Fellow

Activities: Mediation clinic. Fellow Program

Attorney

Sterling Media Law

2022 - Current

Attorney focused on media law, employment law, business law and real estate law. Certified mediator, former EEOC enforcement team member. Graduate of USC Law School, USC Annenberg and Babson MBA. Professor at USC Gould Law School and USC Annenberg School.

Opt Up or Pipe Down: Data Privacy in the 21st Century

Hastings Law Review

July 10, 2024

Big Brother Bargain: Can Governments Bypass Your Rights by Paying Up?

Digital Law Asia

February 27, 2024

Adjunct Professor, USC Annenberg, Los Angeles

August 15, 2023

The Annenberg School - University of Southern California

Professor of digital media, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Lecturer of Law, USC Gould School of Law, Los Angeles

May 12, 2024

USC law School

Lecturer of Law at USC Gould School of Law

MC3 Certified Mediator

MC3

AAA - Mediator Panel Member

AAA

State Bar of California  # 343867

Member

Current

California

State Bar of California

ID Number: 343867

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• Contingent Fees

Q. Is using seperate asset as collateral for a marital loan count as commingling?

July 18, 2024

A: California is a community property state, meaning that there is a presumption that all property acquired during the marriage, belongs to the marital economic community and is considered to be community property. The presumption is rebuttable, which means that the spouse who takes the position the property is NOT community property, has the opportunity to prove the property is their separate property. There is also a presumption that any property acquired prior to the marriage, is separate property.

Commingling presents challenges on many levels and the question you pose is not focused on the property (asset), rather you are asking about the liability that was taken out (and collateralized by the separate property asset).

Based on the facts you have presented, and presuming that you are asking only about the loan (and not the ETF), it is likely that the loan could be considered part of the marital economic community and a joint liability for both spouses. To the extent that you did not commingle community property funds (for example didn't deposit part of your earnings during the marriage into the ETF), it is likely that the ETF would remain your sold property.

Depending on the amount in question and overall value of the marital economic community, it's best to consult with a lawyer. They can review your specific situation, advise you on your options, and guide you through the process.

Here's what I can offer:

I can review the documents, paper-trail and nature of the funds/liability and advise you on next steps.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you have further questions or would like to schedule a consultation to discuss your case in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact me. ... Read More

Q. Is it better to have a paralegal fill out the response paperwork to a mediation for child support and divorce?

July 18, 2024

A: This is a good question and we are asked this often. The answer attorneys learned in law school, to nearly every question is, "it depends." There are advantages and disadvantages to having a paralegal fill out the response paperwork for child support and divorce mediation. Keep in mind, a paralegal (and/or a non-lawyer) are not allowed to give you ANY legal advice - at all.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Benefits:

Cost-effective: Paralegals typically charge less than lawyers for administrative tasks like paperwork.

Efficiency: Some paralegals are experienced in handling mediation paperwork and can complete it accurately and efficiently.

Time-saving: This frees you up to focus on other aspects of your case, such as gathering documentation or preparing for mediation discussions.

Things to consider:

Legal complexity: If your case involves complex legal issues or significant assets, a lawyer's expertise in crafting the response could be beneficial.

Understanding your rights: A lawyer can ensure you understand your rights and obligations regarding child support and divorce settlements.

Negotiation strategy: A lawyer can help you develop a negotiation strategy to achieve your desired outcome during mediation.

My recommendation:

For a straightforward case, with simple issues and needs, having a paralegal fill out the paperwork can be a good option. However, if your case is complex or you have concerns about your rights, it's best to consult with a lawyer. They can review your specific situation, advise you on your options, and guide you through the mediation process.

Here's what I can offer:

I can review the mediation paperwork and advise you on whether a paralegal is a suitable option for your case.

I can guide you on what information needs to be included in the response and strategize with you on how to approach the mediation.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you have further questions or would like to schedule a consultation to discuss your case in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact me. ... Read More

Q. I believe that I was wrongfully kicked out of my tiny home on wood Street in Oakland

July 18, 2024

A: Sorry you are having these challenges and what the landlord is doing is absolutely not correct. In addition to seeking civil remedies, you may be able to enlist the assistance of law enforcement. It appears that the landlord and their staff (or agents) acted illegally and potentially in a criminal fashion. The Courts in California frown upon landlords engaging in self-help practices (where they attempt to forcibly evict tenants without first going through the Courts). Under California law, the only lawful way to evict a tenant is to file a case in court. As a tenant, you have a right to remain in your home until a court orders you to move out. Find legal help as soon as you can. If you can’t afford to pay a private attorney, there are free legal services in your area. You can find free legal services by visiting lawhelpca.org ... Read More