KINGSTON, Jamaica — New York-based Townsend Law Firm has secured a significant legal victory for dancehall icon Vybz Kartel, obtaining a court order that fully dismisses a multimillion-dollar lawsuit filed against the Grammy-nominated artist.
On March 3, a New York Supreme Court Judge ruled in Kartel’s favor, dismissing the case with prejudice — permanently barring the plaintiffs from refiling. The suit, which was brought in July 2025 against Kartel and a promoter agency, had sought several million dollars in damages and carried allegations that put his performing rights at risk.
The firm’s founder and managing attorney, Kadian Townsend, Esq., described the outcome as meaningful on multiple levels.
“This win means a lot both personally and professionally,” she said. “Personally, it is a reminder of God’s presence and goodness. At five years old, He placed a desire in my heart to become a lawyer, and He has guided me ever since. I pray over every case I handle — He gives me the strategies and walks with me into every boardroom and courtroom.”
Townsend, who grew up in Tower Isle, St. Mary, Jamaica, also spoke to what the ruling signals for her firm’s growing profile in entertainment law.
“This victory cements our reputation as an emerging force in the entertainment law space,” she said. “While we routinely handle transactional work for artists, production companies, and entrepreneurs, this case showcases the strength of our litigation practice. It demonstrates that Townsend Law is a true one-stop shop — whether we’re negotiating contracts, structuring deals, or vigorously defending clients when disputes arise.”
On her client’s reaction, Townsend was direct: “The deejay is very pleased. This ruling intercepted what could have been serious financial and professional consequences — affecting business relationships and performing rights. Winning this case is a huge relief, and now he can leave it behind and focus on continuing to thrive in his career.”
Townsend holds a degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and earned her law degree — cum laude — from the University of the District of Columbia’s David A. Clarke School of Law. After gaining experience at a prestigious New York City corporate law firm, she launched Townsend Law Firm in 2025.
The firm, headquartered in the heart of New York City, comprises a diverse team of attorneys with backgrounds spanning boutique practices, large firms, and government agencies. The team is licensed across multiple jurisdictions, including New York, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
