Post #4143798

2026-07-27 17:24 UTC

. . . the agent is torn and would probably have to step aside. It is often the case that what the writer most needs isn't a larger advance but better contract terms. You'll find editors saying, "We prefer to work with agented authors because if a dispute arises, we can talk to the agent instead of the author." Why? Because all most all the time, the agent needs the publishing company more than it needs the author. . . 6/

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@Teri_Kanefield@mastodon.social 2026-07-27 17:28

. . . because the only thing they have to offer new authors is access to the publisher. Conclusion for this issue: The agent is an out-sourced slush reader, so there is a conflict of interest. Here is the definition of conflict of interest in relation to laws governing lawyers: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_7_conflict_of_interest_current_clients/comment_on_rule_1_7/ (2) second issue. Agents negotiate contracts but they are not trained in contract law. This is called unauthorized practice of law . . . 7

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