About Ira

Ira Rainess practices law at Silverman Thompson in Maryland, focusing on appeals and appellate law. He co-founded the firm in 2005 and has served as its President since then. The firm handles a variety of cases, including arbitration and mediation, as well as entertainment and sports law matters across the state. He earned his J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1992 — Prior to that, he obtained a B.A. from the University of Maryland in 1989.

His extensive legal career began shortly after law school, when he became President of a legal organization in 1992. Since then, he has held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Business Development in 2003 and Executive Vice President in 2016. Most of his work involves navigating complex legal issues in appellate courts, where he represents clients in a range of disputes. He has developed a reputation for his understanding of appellate procedures and his ability to craft compelling arguments. Cases typically involve reviewing trial court decisions and presenting appeals to higher courts. His experience also includes mediation and arbitration, where he helps parties reach amicable resolutions without going to trial.

In addition to his practice, he has been an adjunct professor of sports law since 2005, sharing his expertise with law students at the University of Baltimore. That role allows him to contribute to the next generation of legal professionals while staying current with developments in the field. His involvement in academia supports his legal education and mentorship. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar and serves on the board of the University of Baltimore Law School Sports Law Institute. These affiliations keep him connected to the legal community and informed about changes in the law. His contributions to the field have been recognized by peers and colleagues alike.

Ira Rainess continues to be an influential figure in Maryland's legal field, particularly in the areas of appeals and sports law. His experience and dedication to his clients make him a valuable resource in the legal community. As he looks to the future, he remains committed to advancing his practice and supporting the legal profession in Maryland.

Education

University of Maryland

B.A.

1989

University of Baltimore School of Law

J.D. (1992) | Law

Languages

English (Spoken)

Experience

Executive Vice President

Alliance MMA, Inc. President Alliance MMA : Nasdaq (“AMMA”)
2016

Lawyer

Silverman Thompson
2005

Co-Founder and President

Rainmaker Sports & Entertainment
2005

Adjunct Sports Law Professor

University of Baltimore School of Law
2005

Vice President Business Development

Playmaker Sports Advisors, LLC
2003

President

Tufton Group, Inc, Ripken Baseball and Aberdeen Professional Baseball
1992

Accepted Jurisdictions

Maryland

Court Admissions

Maryland Court of Appeals State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

appeals arbitration mediation entertainment law sports law

Legal Services Scope

Trial Appellate

Professional Associations

Maryland State Bar

has membership Current

University of Baltimore Law School Sports Law Institute

Board has membership Current