A reader asks: I have a website and can’t afford a lawyer to draft up essential legal notices. I have decided to cut and paste all necessary legal language from a similar website for my site. Is there a problem with this?
Answer: Given the staggering number variables that can play into this, it’s unwise to simply cut and paste terms of use, disclaimers and other legally binding documents on your own website. Covering them all would take several columns, but here are four things to consider:
It may be copyright infringement – Simply cutting and pasting content from one website to another is often copyright infringement. In this case, you’re not copying pure facts, you are copying the creative expression. For example, there may be specific language that is necessary for terms of use that have independent legal significance. Those sections may have been drafted by an attorney (or not) and the rights to the copyright may be with the website or with the original attorney, depending on their contract.
To read the full, original article click on this link: Cut-and-pasting legal language vs. hiring a lawyer | VentureBeat
Author:Curtis Smolar
