บท 197: Chapter 197: Baker McKenzie International Law Firm
Three days passed quickly, and George and Li Gen updated Hardy on the situation with the Screen Actors Guild.
"The actors' union currently has $450,000 in funding. Last year, it collected a total of $1.35 million in dues. This year should be even higher," George reported.
Li Genhui added, "I've reviewed the union complaints and have over 700 cases, including issues like unpaid wages, low pay, sexual harassment, unfair contracts, and physical abuse."
He continued, "We received two particularly troubling complaints yesterday. One girl, Luna, claimed that she and her friend signed with a brokerage company where the broker repeatedly coerced them into sexual relations. They were trapped by their contract and couldn't escape."
"Another complaint involves a girl who was abused by a director. This director, contracted by Columbia Pictures, has made several well-known films, including one nominated for an Oscar."
"The girl said she was a supporting actress in one of his movies. The director physically abused her in front of the crew, slapped her several times, and forced her to perform a particularly demanding scene."
"Afterwards, the director threatened her in his hotel room, saying if she didn't comply, he would ruin her career and sue her for breach of contract."
"Under his threats, she reluctantly complied with his demands on four separate occasions. She also reported that he used various tools to inflict pain and often left her bruised."
Hardy nodded thoughtfully. "For unpaid wages, the union should send a formal letter to the film companies, setting a deadline for payment. If the companies fail to comply, the union will take legal action."
"For the issues with the brokerage company, we should hire HD Security's intelligence personnel to investigate the broker. Gather evidence, take photos, and make a documentary if possible. This will not only bring attention to the actors' union but also provide good publicity."
"As for the director, since he's associated with one of the major film studios, we should make this case public. I'll find a lawyer to represent the girl in her lawsuit. Even if there's limited evidence, we'll make sure the director faces significant challenges."
Hardy's plan was to use the situation to set a strong precedent. By targeting a major studio, he hoped to deter other companies from mistreating actors.
"Let's make sure this issue is handled decisively," Hardy said with a smile.
He called Andy and asked him to send a top-notch lawyer. Andy mentioned, "Boss, I have two lawyers who want to start a law firm and are seeking your investment."
"Oh, interesting. What's their track record?" Hardy asked.
"They're excellent. Both graduated from Yale Law School and have consistently performed well. They're eager to start their own firm," Andy replied.
"Have them come over. I'd like to meet them," Hardy said.
In the afternoon, Hardy met with Ross Baker and John McKenzie in his office. Both were in their thirties and dressed in sharp suits.
"Hello, Mr. Hardy," they greeted in unison.
"Have a seat. What would you like to drink?" Hardy asked.
"Coffee would be great," they responded.
The secretary brought coffee, and Hardy began, "Andy mentioned you want to start a law firm and seek investment from me?"
"Yes, we've been working for several years and are ready to establish our own firm, similar to Mr. Andy's financial company," Ross Baker explained.
"We aim to operate independently and grow by recruiting new talent," John McKenzie added.
"And what are you proposing?" Hardy asked.
"We're seeking an investment of $500,000 for 40% of the firm's shares," McKenzie stated.
Hardy thought for a moment and responded, "I'll invest $1 million for 60% of the shares."
Baker and McKenzie were surprised by Hardy's prompt agreement, though the share percentage was more than they expected. Initially, they thought 50% would be reasonable, with 40% being a concession.
The increased investment would allow them to secure better office space, hire more staff, and accelerate the firm's growth.
"That's acceptable. We appreciate your support," McKenzie said.
Hardy was pleased. Owning a law firm would simplify many future legal matters.
"Have you decided on a name for the firm?" Hardy asked.
The two exchanged smiles. "Yes, we've chosen 'Baker McKenzie International Law Firm.' What do you think?"
Hardy was taken aback. "Baker McKenzie? The same firm that would become one of the world's largest law firms?"
He recalled that, in his previous life, he had engaged their services for legal matters. Baker McKenzie was renowned globally, with thousands of lawyers and offices in numerous countries.
"If it's truly them, this investment will be highly lucrative," Hardy thought.
"How many partners do you plan to hire?" Hardy asked.
"We've already found twelve partners," Baker replied.
"Without my investment, you would have still pursued starting the firm?" Hardy inquired.
McKenzie admitted, "Yes, we would have started the firm eventually, but it would have taken three to five years to gain traction. With your investment, we can immediately hire 40 to 50 lawyers and become a medium-sized firm, with the potential to grow into a large firm within three years."
Hardy noted the complementary skills of Baker and McKenzie, reflecting on their potential success.
"Once the Hardy Group is established, Baker McKenzie can become its contracted law firm. There will be plenty of business to handle. You should start hiring as soon as possible," Hardy advised.
Both Baker and McKenzie were thrilled. They understood the magnitude of the opportunity and were eager to get started.
"We'll work hard to provide top-notch legal services for the group," Baker assured.
Hardy was satisfied. With Baker McKenzie on board, he would have robust legal support for his various ventures.
"For the firm's establishment, I'll sign the contract once the documents are ready. In the meantime, here's a case to get you started," Hardy said, handing them the letter detailing the director's misconduct.
The two reviewed the letter. "Given the time elapsed, it might be challenging to secure a conviction. Evidence may be scarce," McKenzie said.
Hardy replied, "We don't need a conviction. The goal is to make the director's actions widely known. Assist the girl in her lawsuit, and even if we can't secure a conviction, we'll show our determination."
"Understood. We'll handle it and ensure the director faces public scrutiny," McKenzie said.
The two left, eager to begin their work. Hardy felt confident that this investment would be highly beneficial, both for him and for the newly established firm.
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