William D. Henslee

William D. Henslee is a Professor of Law at Florida A&M University College of Law, where he has been a faculty member since 2001 and currently serves as a full-time professor. He is a founding faculty member of the law school and has previously taught at Pepperdine University School of Law, Santa Clara University School of Law, and other institutions in adjunct and visiting roles. His teaching and scholarship focus on intellectual property, entertainment law, sports law, and legal writing.

• M.F.A. in Film, University of California, Los Angeles (1996)
• J.D., Pepperdine University School of Law (1984)
• B.A. in English, University of Hawaii, Manoa (1977)

Professor Henslee's research centers on copyright law, music industry regulation, digital media, and the legal aspects of film and entertainment. His work critically examines fair use, the work-for-hire doctrine, performance rights for sound recordings, and the impact of digital platforms like YouTube on intellectual property enforcement. He has also contributed significantly to legal education literature, particularly on career development for law students and alternative legal careers.

His recent scholarly output shows a continued engagement with evolving legal issues, including the use of generative AI in legal practice and the ethical responsibilities of lawyers in the digital age. He has published in prominent law journals and authored or co-authored multiple books and casebooks.

Selected Scientific Awards:

• Clark Award for Creative Writing

Professor Henslee has served in numerous leadership roles at FAMU Law, including as Interim Director of Legal Methods and chair of the Curriculum Committee, Academic Standards Committee, and Retention, Promotion & Tenure Committee. He advises the Advocacy Board, Entertainment, Arts & Sports Law Society, and Intellectual Property Law Society. He maintains a private legal practice specializing in sports and entertainment law and is the owner of American Pride Publishing, a music publishing company. He has no known lab or research team affiliations, as his work is primarily in legal scholarship and teaching.