There are a whole lot of lawyers out there (at least in the US where I live) and lots of people get information and advice about running their business via the internet. I know that I've received lots of good advice that way, from people like Jim Logan and Anita Campbell. Sometimes after reading something on the web, I'll go buy the author's book and get more extensive information from them.

But should you get legal advice from someone on the web? Since I am a lawyer, I'll give you a classic lawyer's answer: yes and no. (Sorry, just had to say that.)

Not a lot of small business owners I know, or people who are trying to start up a business, can afford to hire a lawyer. Especially when most lawyers still charge by the hour, and you are not quite sure what your issue actually is, and you know he will keep the meter running while he helps you figure it out.

Here are three things to consider when reading what looks like legal advice on a website. (These are based on US law but the underlying principles are universal.)

1. The law is very location-specific. There is a reason why lawyers have to pass the bar exam in every state they wish to practice in. (O.k., besides the "hazing" factor...i.e. since I had to take the damn test so do you.) Your rights and responsibilities can differ, sometimes greatly, depending on what state's laws will apply to the controversy. Any lawyer who purports to give general advice to a specific problem is doing you a disservice if she does not acknowledge that the answer may be very different depending on the law that applies.

2. In the law, there are no easy answers. When a lawyer gives what seems to be an evasive answer, sometimes he is being evasive, but a good lawyer will never give an easy answer. A good lawyer will ask A LOT of questions. That is the only way to get to the right solution.

3. There are risks in handling legal problems without a lawyer. If you know what they are, you can decide whether to take those risks or not.

The goal of this blog is to help you manage the risks of doing business in the most cost-effective, sensible way possible. We can talk about the law, about insurance, and any other issues that will help you make better decisions, and reach your goals faster. Let me know your questions and concerns.