California’s Division of Labor Standards Enforcement has sided with Nicole Doshi in a significant contract dispute against her former talent agency, Motley Models, and its owner, Dave Rock.

The ruling, delivered on April 30, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in industry-wide discussions about fair labor practices and contract enforcement, proving that girls in predatory contracts do have options.

Nicole Doshi, who was previously under an exclusive contract with Motley Models, initiated the dispute after alleging that Dave Rock had breached their agreement. Central to the controversy were unauthorized booking fees that Doshi’s legal team argued violated the Talent Agency Act—a regulation that sets forth strict guidelines for agency contracts in entertainment.

Casey Raymond, the hearing officer presiding over the case, ruled that all contracts between Doshi, Motley Models, and Rock should be void and terminated. Additionally, the judgment orders the defunct agency and Rock to reimburse Doshi a substantial sum covering commissions, booking fees, legal costs, and added interest.

Specifically, Doshi is to receive $25,875 in returned commissions, $10,850 for booking fees, $16,208 in attorney fees, and other associated costs totaling $261.24.

Allan Gelbard, Doshi’s legal representative, praised the ruling. Speaking to AVN, Gelbard highlighted the decision’s broader implications, noting, “The Labor Commission has now taken a definitive stance on the booking fees issue, finding them unlawful and a conflict of interest. This is a very performer-protective decision, which aligns with the protective intent of the Talent Agency Act.”

Conversely, Richard Freeman, representing Motley Models, expressed strong dissent regarding the hearing officer’s decision. In a statement to AVN, Freeman conveyed his discontent, especially concerning the treatment of booking fees, which he described as historically inconsistent with the rulings of the Labor Commissioner’s Office. Freeman indicated that there has been a lack of judicial determination on the matter, emphasizing that the issue has only been internally resolved within the Labor Commissioner’s framework.

This ruling not only resolves Doshi’s contractual grievances but also sets a significant precedent for the handling of similar disputes within the talent agency realm, particularly in the adult entertainment sector. The outcome is expected to influence future negotiations and contract formulations, emphasizing the importance of transparency and adherence to statutory regulations.

As the industry evolves, this case underscores the critical need for agencies and performers alike to fully understand and respect the legal boundaries and protections afforded under the Talent Agency Act. This decision is a step forward in ensuring fair treatment and justice for performers navigating the complexities of contractual agreements in the industry.

You can follow Nicole Doshi on X at @nicoledoshi.