[zaphar]

If you get a good lawyer and he drives a hard bargain that doesn't mean you get the record label deal though. What's more important is determining how much you are willing to give up for a record label deal. The label is perfectly capable of telling you no deal if they don't want to give you all your demands. There are a lot of other artists out there who will drive an easier bargain.

The lawyer is helpful in actually understanding the deal but he can't guarantee the deal you want.

[ethank]

Very true. You also need to be willing to walk away and hold the line. I've seen contract negotiations go for YEARS.