Life as a content creator filled with creative liberty, a flexible routine, and generous profit can seem promising, however, those perks can easily blind the obstacles that come from the legalities of the job. Next to brands and agencies, the demand to give more legal power to the creator side of the influencer world is crucial. From being a content creator to representing them as an attorney, Julian Sarafian leverages his expertise in law and mental health to amplify the voices of social media influencers and content creators alike.
After earning his BA in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, Sarafian pursued law at Harvard University. He spent three years in corporate transactional work before prioritizing his mental health and exploring entrepreneurial endeavors. During the pandemic, Sarafian turned to the internet to share his story about his mental health struggles, eventually becoming the forefront of his platform. As a high-achiever facing numerous mental challenges, his vulnerability resonated with many viewers, marking a turning point in his journey to advocate for mental health. His educational and legal background gave him a unique perspective on content creation as well.
Sarafian’s media strategy was straightforward: use social media to spread awareness and create an impact. This approach led to success as he discussed his interests in mental health, legal policies, and even dogs. Sarafian’s content intends to clarify legal, political, and social issues, aspiring to be a rational and authoritative voice amid a digital landscape rife with misinformation and disinformation. “I’m happy to do it as a public service that keeps the conversation more rational and grounded. It gets difficult to be blunt, especially today, but it’s important work,” he said.
Sarafian says, “I found myself accidentally becoming a content creator online, and when I started getting brand deals, I found that folks in the space were getting taken advantage of left and right by brands, agencies, and even the platforms themselves.” His initial pursuit of being an educational outlet developed into a new passion as he began to notice legal issues firsthand as a content creator.
Outside of being an influencer, Sarafian uses his legal background to represent creators in their own legal battles through his law firm, For Creators by Creators, specializing in intellectual property rights, predatory agents, and liability. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of content creators and addressing overlooked issues. “I don’t think it’s right that they’re the ones being taken advantage of, especially when they’re the backbone of the creator economy… without the creators, there is no creator economy,” he shared. Like working with businesses, supporting content creators requires discipline and determination for the success of any job. “So when I’m helping creators, yes, I’m helping an individual. But on a big-picture level, I’m really helping a small business,” he explained.
In 2022, Sarafian worked with a client and TikToker named Michelle whose video went viral on TikTok for sharing her dog’s distressing experience at WAG Hotel in San Francisco. In the video, she criticized the workplace for its mistreatment of her dog, Miso, who was “covered in urine all over his body, all over his paws, all up to his elbows and he was in a very, very poor mental state.” Her video prompted many other dog owners to share their negative experiences with WAG Hotels.
In response to the video’s virality, WAG Hotels sent Michelle a cease and desist order, demanding she take down the video and threatened to sue for defamation. Sarafian represented Michelle, ensuring that she was protected against WAG Hotel’s legal pursuits. About a year later, the San Francisco Chronicle published an exposé on WAG Hotels and their operations. Sarafian’s support in this case drew attention to the issues of defamation and the challenges many other content creators face.
Sarafian’s legal degree not only garners meritable attention but also secures a professional voice on social platforms. Whether they are content creators seeking authoritative advice, or students looking for mentorship, his platform strives to be a safe space for information and education. He encourages aspiring creators to “not be afraid to seek out legal counsel, even if you think you don’t need it.”
His ultimate career goal is to make platforms more “creator-centered and creator-friendly.” He aims to challenge and support creators on the monetization and practical aspects of social media. He believes in advocating for policies that compel social media platforms to develop tools and systems that empower creators and provide them with the recognition they deserve.
If there is anyone who deserves to win the Best Team Player award, it is Julian Sarafian. His unwavering respect and advocacy for content creators are evident in his dedication to supporting them through their toughest legal battles. As he relentlessly fights for the voices of content creators, Sarafian’s prowess as an attorney will continue to analyze, unpack, and combat the legal issues that have plagued many creators, enforcing brands, companies, and agencies to protect the influencers that the creator economy stands upon.
Check out Julian and For Creators by Creators on socials!
Julian Sarafian TikTok
Julian Sarafian Instagram
For Creators by Creators TikTok
For Creators by Creators Instagram
