The internet can be a great resource for recipes, travel tips, and maybe even DIY home repairs. But when it comes to legal advice? Not so much. The web is overflowing with bad—and sometimes downright dangerous—legal information. Whether it’s a random blog post, a viral TikTok, or a Reddit thread, you’re bound to find advice that’s more fiction than fact.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll just Google it,” when faced with a legal question, this article is for you. Here’s why online legal advice is a bad idea and how it can cost you more than you think.
Bad Legal Advice Is Everywhere
In recent weeks, some particularly outrageous examples of bad online legal advice have been making the rounds on social media:
- The Rock Song Rationale: After a rock song was used at a political rally, a singer proposed recording a country version of the song to “avoid copyright issues.” Cue thousands of internet “experts” insisting that this would indeed work. Spoiler alert: It won’t.
- Drake and the Pet Shop Boys: Drake’s latest hit allegedly samples the 1984 classic West End Girls without permission. Social media erupted with opinions on why this was “perfectly legal,” but guess what? It’s not.
- The Fables Public Domain Fiasco: Comic book creator Bill Willingham announced he was placing his series Fables in the public domain due to frustrations with DC Comics. Fans rejoiced, citing obscure copyright cases as proof they could now use the material freely. The problem? DC Comics holds the copyright, not Willingham. DC’s response was simple: “DC reserves all rights.”
Each of these cases sparked thousands of blog posts, Reddit threads, and TikTok explainer videos. The result? Misinformation spreading faster than wildfire.
The AI Problem: Misinformation Feeding the Machines
Here’s where things get even messier: Artificial intelligence tools, like ChatGPT, rely on the internet to source their information. That means they’re absorbing the good, the bad, and the downright absurd.
For example:
- A quick Google search for “Bill Willingham and copyright law” yields over 300,000 results, much of it inaccurate.
- AI tools don’t inherently know the difference between credible legal sources and wildly incorrect opinions.
The rise of DIY legal research combined with the spread of bad information online creates a perfect storm for disaster. Need proof? Let’s talk about the $3 million Dune debacle.
The Dune Copyright Disaster
In 2021, a group of crypto enthusiasts bought a rare copy of Frank Herbert’s Dune for an eye-watering $3.04 million (expected value: $30,000). They proudly announced plans to:
- Make the book public.
- Create an animated series inspired by it.
- Support derivative fan projects.
Their mistake? Believing that owning a rare book gave them the copyright to its content. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t. Copyright law doesn’t work that way, and their grand plans were dead on arrival.
This expensive misunderstanding could have been avoided with one phone call to an attorney. Instead, they relied on internet research—and learned a $3 million lesson.
Why DIY Legal Research Is a Terrible Idea
Relying on online legal advice is like asking WebMD to diagnose a serious medical condition. Sure, it might give you a starting point, but it’s no substitute for a professional. Here’s why:
- Misinformation Runs Rampant: Anecdotal stories and half-truths often masquerade as expert advice online.
- Every Case Is Unique: What worked for someone else might not apply to your situation.
- The Stakes Are High: Legal mistakes can lead to costly fines, lawsuits, or worse.
How to Avoid the Pitfalls of DIY Lawyering
Here are some practical tips to protect yourself:
- Consult an Attorney: Always run your legal questions by a qualified attorney. They’ll give you accurate advice tailored to your situation.
- Verify Sources: If you’re researching online, stick to credible sources like government websites or established legal organizations.
- Don’t Believe Everything You Read: Just because a TikTok or Reddit thread has thousands of likes doesn’t mean it’s correct.
- Think Long-Term: Legal mistakes made today can haunt you for years. Investing in proper advice upfront can save you money and stress.
The Bottom Line
Legal matters are too important to leave to chance—or to the internet. Whether it’s copyright law, contracts, or custody battles, trusting online advice can lead to costly mistakes. Instead, consult an experienced attorney who can guide you in the right direction.
Indigo Family Law prides ourselves on providing clear, reliable legal advice. Don’t leave your future to chance—or a Google search. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the answers you need.