3 Legal Things Athletes Should Do Before Signing an Agent

Landing an agent is a big deal in the sports world. However, before you sign with one, it's vital to ensure you've taken the proper steps to protect yourself. Although the majority of agents are there to help you, including landing you a higher compensation package filled with perks, there are a few rotten apples. Getting involved with one of the bad ones could end up turning your life upside down.

How Can a Bad Sports Agent Harm You?

Choosing a bad agent is similar to choosing the wrong partner. They could attempt to turn you against a franchise, interfere with your contractual relations and even try to psychologically separate you from your teammates, family and friends. Other things to watch out for include lying to you, giving you bad career advice, violating contractual agreements, and ,aking you miss out on opportunities to grow. So, what's the best way to keep yourself safe? Start with the following three tips.

1. Do a Background Check on the Agent

The league may have done a background check before allowing an agent to work with athletes, but how long ago was it completed? Rather than simply relying upon the league to have conduct a thorough and timely background check, take the time to do one yourself. Additionally, you should look for reviews from their current and past clients. If anything feels off, go with your gut and don't sign with them.

Remember: Not everyone is as they seem, so even if you think they're a great person, don't neglect this step.

2. Create an Ironclad Will

Most athletes are young and in great shape. Unfortunately, this means that many of them haven't bothered to put a will together yet. Take a beat and consider the financial implications of having an agent, though, and you'll begin to understand the importance of taking this step.

One of the negative things a bad sports agent can do is embezzle money. This can take many forms, including making themselves the beneficiary of your will. What happens if an accident causes you to die in your prime? Instead, build an ironclad will with an experienced lawyer. That way, you won't have to worry about the possibility of your family not receiving your money.

3. Get a Legal Plan for Financials

As a potential sports star, you're going to have a lot of money to deal with. Even if you play for an organization that doesn't pay much, there is still the opportunity to be sponsored by a major company. Take Caitlin Clark, for example. She only made $76,535 for her first year in the WNBA. However, due to smart sponsorship deals, Clark is worth anestimated $3.8 million. Putting a legal plan in place means having a team of attorneys on standby to assist you with anything you might need. This is much more practical than having to search for a reputable attorney each time you need legal advice.

Take your time before signing with any sports agent. You deserve to have the right representation, so don't immediately hop on the first person who tries to sign you.