The Hughes Companies is a specialized law firm and sports agency dedicated to representing college athletes in Oregon and Nebraska, focusing exclusively on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Founded by Michael R. Hughes, an accomplished trial attorney with 25 years of experience, the firm stands out for its cutting-edge approach to the rapidly changing landscape of collegiate sports law, offering free consultations and personalized support to help athletes maximize their earning potential and protect their rights.
The firm combines extensive litigation and negotiation expertise with a deep understanding of NCAA regulations, university policies, and emerging legal precedents affecting student athletes. It serves elite college players in sports including football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, and track and field, particularly those at the University of Oregon and University of Nebraska. With a focus on future developments like revenue sharing and potential employee status for athletes, The Hughes Companies provides strategic guidance to navigate this evolving field while offering holistic support for both athletic and post-athletic careers.
Services Offered
- NIL contract negotiation, review, and drafting
- Brand management and public relations support
- Merchandise rights assistance and deal management
- University and NCAA policy navigation and compliance guidance
- Eligibility and disciplinary matter representation
- Transfer assistance under NCAA rules
- Legal counseling related to class action cases (e.g., House v. NCAA)
- Legal literacy education and rights advisement for athletes
- Business formation services and entity selection
- Trademark searches, applications, and usage permissions
- Media relations and media training preparation
- Risk management and image protection strategies
- Registered sports agent services in Oregon and Nebraska
- Cannabis law consulting (including OLCC applications, hemp, and psilocybin law)
- Political consulting for the cannabis industry
- Nationwide marijuana business consulting
- Criminal defense (assault, drug crimes, DUI, federal crimes, violent crimes, white-collar crimes)
- Judicial services
- Land use and zoning legal services
The firm primarily serves clients in Oregon and Nebraska, with a focus on student athletes at major universities in these states. Attorney Hughes is a registered sports agent in both jurisdictions and offers services in English. His background as a litigator, adjunct professor, and pioneer in cannabis law adds a unique depth to the firm’s multidisciplinary approach.
