14 hours ago
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Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel has secured a major legal victory in the United States after a New York court dismissed a multimillion-dollar lawsuit that had been filed against him and a promoter agency.
On March 3, a judge in the New York Supreme Court granted a motion to dismiss the case with prejudice, meaning the plaintiffs are permanently barred from filing the same claim again.
The case had been brought in July 2025, alleging claims that could have potentially threatened the artiste’s performing rights and business relationships.
Attorney Behind the Win
The case was successfully argued by Kadian Townsend, managing attorney of the Townsend Law Firm.
Townsend, who is originally from Tower Isle in St Mary, Jamaica, described the ruling as both personally meaningful and professionally significant.
“This win means a lot both personally and professionally. Personally, it is a reminder of God’s presence and His goodness,” she said.
Townsend added that becoming a lawyer had been a lifelong calling.
“At the age of five, He placed a desire in my heart to become a lawyer and He has been guiding me ever since. I pray about every case that I touch and He is the one who gives me strategies and walks with me into every boardroom and courtroom.”
Protecting Kartel’s Career
According to Townsend, the ruling prevents serious potential consequences that could have affected Kartel’s career, including financial losses and restrictions on his ability to perform.
“As you can imagine, the deejay is very pleased with the ruling, as it intercepted any serious ripple effects that could have had implications both financially and professionally,” she said.
“Winning this case is a huge relief and now he can put it behind him and just focus on continuing to thrive in his career.”
Growing Reputation in Entertainment Law
Townsend also said the case strengthens her firm’s reputation in the entertainment law sector.
“While the firm routinely handles transactional matters for artistes, production companies and entrepreneurs, this case highlights the strength of its litigation practice as well,” she explained.
“It demonstrates that Townsend Law is a true one-stop shop for business and entertainment clients — negotiating contracts, structuring deals and vigorously defending clients when disputes arise.”
Townsend founded the firm in 2025 after previously working at a corporate law firm in New York City.
She attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice before earning her law degree from the University of the District of Columbia David A Clarke School of Law, graduating cum laude.
The Townsend Law Firm, headquartered in New York City, now represents clients across the business and entertainment sectors, with attorneys licensed to practise in New York, Maryland and Washington, D.C..
English (US) ·