webeeui-hero-2-colAgents & Representatives
Sports Agent Disputes: Legal Defense and Support
Conflict with or between agents? Disputed commissions? Termination of mandate?
A dispute with a sports agent can quickly become a major source of stress for an athlete or coach. Whether you are contesting a commission, wish to terminate a mandate, or are dissatisfied with your agent's performance, these situations require appropriate legal support to protect your interests.
Since 1973, Bertrand Law Firm has been assisting athletes and sports professionals with all issues related to sports agents and representatives.
Our exclusive expertise in sports law allows us to advise you on your agency contracts, defend you in the event of a dispute, and represent you before all competent authorities.
webeeui-left-split-toggleOur Services by Profile Type
Athletes and coaches dealing with agents
Who do we represent?
- Professional players (soccer, rugby, basketball, handball, etc.)
- Individual athletes (tennis, boxing, cycling, etc.)
- Coaches and technical staff
- Athletes of all levels facing a dispute with their agent
Our support
- ✅ Analysis of your agency contract: Review of clauses, identification of risks and points of negotiation
- ✅ Negotiation with your agent: Mediation and search for amicable solutions
- ✅ Commission disputes: Verification of the validity of the amounts claimed, defense of your interests
- ✅ Termination of mandate: Support in termination, contesting excessive compensation
- ✅ Legal disputes: Representation before civil courts and courts of appeal
Can I terminate my mandate agreement with my agent?
Yes, it is possible to terminate a mandate agreement in the event of contractual breaches or, depending on the circumstances, in accordance with your contractual provisions. The mandate may provide for notice, termination compensation, or specific termination conditions. We analyze your contract to identify the best exit strategy and limit the financial consequences of termination.
My agent is claiming commissions. Am I obliged to pay?
Not necessarily. The commission is only due if it is provided for in a valid mandate and if the conditions for its payment are met (triggering event, amount in accordance with legal limits). We check the validity of the mandate, compliance with federal rules, and the validity of the claim before advising you on how to proceed.
Sports agents
Who do we represent?
- FIFA agent (EU and non-EU)
- Agents holding a license issued by a French federation (FFF, FFR, FFBB, FFT, etc.)
- Intermediary structures
- Candidates for the profession of agent
Our support
- ✅ Drafting of mandate contracts: Development of mandates in accordance with federal regulations and the Sports Code
- ✅ Regulatory compliance audit: Verification of compliance with legal and federal obligations
- ✅ Licenses to practice: Assistance for EU agents in obtaining temporary licenses to practice in France, drafting of presentation agreements for non-EU agents
- ✅ Disciplinary defense: Representation before agent commissions (federations, FIFA)
- ✅ Inter-agent disputes: Assistance in the event of conflict with other agents (poaching, interference)
- ✅ Commission recovery: Action against clubs for unpaid commissions
Can a foreign agent practice in France?
Yes, but under different conditions. Agents who are citizens of the European Union can obtain temporary authorization to practice in France. Agents from outside the EU must enter into a representation agreement with an agent licensed in France. We assist foreign agents with these administrative procedures.
Does the firm also represent sports agents?
Yes, provided there is no conflict of interest with our sports clients. We assist agents in structuring their business, drafting their agency contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, and defending them before sports authorities (disciplinary, financial, etc.).
Comprehensive legal support (sports agent lawyer)
Who do we represent?
- Professional players seeking independent legal advice
- Coaches negotiating contracts
- Athletes seeking legal support for their careers
Our support
- ✅ Contract negotiation and drafting: Employment contracts, transfers, partnerships, sponsorship, image rights
- ✅ Comprehensive legal advice: Support on all legal issues relating to your career
- ✅ Assistance before commissions: Representation before sports authorities and courts
- ✅ Contract monitoring: Verification and optimization of your contractual commitments
What is the difference between an agent and a legal representative?
A sports agent acts as an intermediary: they search for clubs, establish contacts, and negotiate transfers. A legal representative, authorized by the law of March 28, 2011, provides legal advice and assistance: negotiating and drafting contracts, but without acting as an intermediary. In accordance with the ruling of the Court of Cassation of March 29, 2023 (appeal no. 21-25.335), lawyers may not engage in intermediary activities, even on an ancillary basis.
webeeui-nested-featuresWhy choose Bertrand Law Firm?
Every sports issue requires specific legal expertise. Identify the situation that corresponds to your immediate needs below. Our lawyers specializing in sports law will provide you with a tailor-made approach, whether your case is urgent or requires a long-term strategy.
OUR DIFFERENTIATING EXPERTISE
What sets us apart
- ✅ 52 years of exclusive expertise in sports law (since 1973)
- ✅ More than 8,000 cases handled in sports law
- ✅ Double Gold Trophy at the Law Summit (2024 & 2025)
- ✅ 4 Gold Medals at the Palmarès du Droit (2021, 2022, 2024, 2025)
- ✅ Expertise in the procedures of national sports federations, FIFA, and CAS: regular appearances before these bodies
- ✅ Responsiveness: tailored handling of your case
OUR APPROACH
Disputes with sports agents require a thorough knowledge of federal regulations, the Sports Code, and industry practices. The financial stakes can be significant, and contractual relationships are often complex.
We analyze your situation as a whole: reviewing the agency contract, verifying its compliance with applicable rules, identifying any breaches, and defining the appropriate strategy (negotiation, mediation, or litigation).
Our goal: to defend your interests effectively, favoring amicable solutions where possible, while preparing for litigation if necessary.
webeeui-faqFAQ: Sports Agents and Representatives
Can I change agents during the term of the mandate?
Yes, it is possible to change agents, but you must comply with the terms of your contract (notice period, termination conditions). Termination may result in the payment of compensation if the contract so provides, or if it occurs without legitimate reason. We analyze your contract to identify the best strategy and limit financial risks.
How can I contest a commission that I consider excessive?
Agent commissions are governed by federal law and regulations. In soccer, for example, the new FIFA rules (FFAR 2023, some provisions of which are currently suspended) cap commissions. To challenge a commission, we verify the validity of the mandate, compliance with applicable caps, and the event giving rise to the commission. If the claim is unfounded or excessive, we take the appropriate steps (negotiation or litigation).
Does my agent have the right to also represent my club?
Dual representation (an agent representing both the player and the club in the same transaction) is strictly regulated. FIFA and federal regulations impose transparency requirements and, in some cases, prohibit this practice without the informed consent of the parties. If you discover a conflict of interest, this may constitute a serious breach of the agent's obligations.
In France, dual representation is strictly prohibited.
In France, dual representation is strictly prohibited.
Can a foreign agent practice in France?
Yes, under different conditions. Agents who are citizens of the European Union may obtain a temporary license to practice from the relevant federation. Agents from outside the EU must enter into a representation agreement with an agent licensed in France in order to operate within the country.
Does Cabinet Bertrand also represent sports agents?
Yes, provided there is no conflict of interest with our sports clients. We assist agents with their procedures (obtaining or renewing licenses, regulatory compliance), drafting their agency contracts, and defending them before disciplinary bodies. However, our focus remains on defending athletes.
How much does a lawyer cost for a dispute with an agent?
Our fees depend on the complexity of the case and the type of intervention (one-off advice, negotiation, litigation). We offer a free 15-minute initial consultation to assess your situation. Fees are subject to a transparent prior agreement. Contact us for a quote tailored to your situation.
What is the difference between an agent and a representative lawyer?
A sports agent (licensed by a French federation or FIFA) acts as an intermediary: they seek out opportunities, connect players and clubs, and negotiate transfers. A legal representative, authorized by the law of March 28, 2011, provides legal advice and assistance: negotiation, drafting, and monitoring of contracts. Lawyers may not act as intermediaries, even on a secondary basis, in accordance with the decision of the Court of Cassation of March 29, 2023 (appeal no. 21-25.335).
Do you provide emergency assistance in disputes with agents?
Yes, we can intervene quickly when the situation requires it (formal notice, approaching contract deadline, ongoing proceedings). Contact us by phone for urgent situations and we will assess the measures to be taken as soon as possible.