Billy Joel’s attorney, Leonard Marks, has been involved in several high-profile legal cases over the years. In 1993, Marks represented Joel in a $10 million lawsuit filed by songwriter Gary Zimmerman, who accused Joel of plagiarizing his song “Nowhere Land” for Joel’s hit “River of Dreams.” Marks dismissed the claims as “utter nonsense” and stated that Joel intended to fight the case vigorously.
In 1989, Marks also represented Joel in a lawsuit against his former manager and brother-in-law, Frank Weber. Joel sued Weber for $90 million, alleging fraud and mismanagement of his finances. Marks described the case as the worst he’d ever seen, highlighting the abuse of power that can occur when managers exploit their association with megastars.
Additionally, in 1992, Joel filed a $30 million lawsuit against his former attorney, Allen Grubman, accusing him of fraud and breach of fiduciary duty. The lawsuit was eventually settled, with both parties agreeing to withdraw their claims.
These cases underscore the complex legal battles Leonard Marks has navigated on behalf of Billy Joel, reflecting the challenges artists often face in protecting their creative and financial interests.
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