Attorney General Jay Jones and a coalition of 33 other attorneys general won their lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster, after a jury found on April 24 that the companies violated federal and state antitrust laws by eliminating competition and increasing costs for fans, artists, and venues across the country.
The verdict is significant for consumers who attend live music events as well as artists and venues affected by ticketing practices. The case focused on whether Live Nation’s control over various aspects of the live event industry harmed competition.
“Today’s verdict is a huge win for Virginia’s vibrant live music and entertainment venues and for the loyal consumers who purchase tickets,” said Attorney General Jay Jones. “I am proud of the dedicated attorneys and staff of the Virginia OAG, and in partner states across the nation, who worked tirelessly to ensure that Live Nation and Ticketmaster can no longer pad their pockets on the backs of hardworking consumers. My office looks forward to continuing to hold these corporations accountable as the court determines the best remedy to right these egregious wrongs and lower costs moving forward.”
The case began when Virginia joined with 40 other states and the United States Department of Justice in May 2024 to sue Live Nation. The suit alleged that Live Nation’s broad control—from venue ownership to event promotion to ticketing services—allowed it to raise prices for both fans and artists while suppressing competition. During a five-week trial starting March 2, 2026, DOJ reached a settlement with Live Nation; however, Jones’s coalition rejected this settlement in favor of continuing litigation.
The jury determined that Ticketmaster unlawfully maintains a monopoly over ticketing services at major concert venues. It also found that Live Nation holds a monopoly over large amphitheaters used by artists, requiring those using its amphitheaters also use its promotion services. As a result, fans were found to have been overcharged for concert tickets nationwide.
Having established liability at trial, Attorney General Jones announced plans for his coalition to argue remedies—including financial penalties—at an upcoming bench trial.
The Attorney General of Virginia supports civil rights enforcement programs according to its official website. The office provides legal counsel to state agencies while promoting public safety as detailed online, addresses issues such as human trafficking through advocacy according to its official site, offers consumer protection resources including identity theft support as noted online, serves all residents of Virginia according to its official website, with Miyares currently holding office as Attorney General according to state records.
