Show 2: Alex MacKay (Intellectual Properties Lawyer)

Alex Mackay is a well-respected intellectual properties lawyer in Nashville, TN. She works to help clients strategically register trademarks and copyrights, and defends them in infringement cases. Also an accomplished musician, Alex plays violin for the Nashville Philharmonic Orchestra. In our podcast conversation, Alex tells us about her trajectory from college violinist to professional lawyer.  We learn about the surprising elements of copyright law and how Alex’s creativity (and Spanish fluency) helps her break down tough concepts for clients. Intellectual properties law has enormous political and social consequences. Alex reflects on the recent Matal vs Tam Supreme Court case as proof, showing how a rock singer and his lawyer found themselves entangled in a debate over first amendment rights, racial prejudice, and NFL football. The case illustrates part of Alex’s larger message: law benefits when all parties have cultural awareness to match their legal preparation. Throughout the conversation, Alex also gives advice to young scholars considering applying to law school.