Here’s my very brief review of “Law Of The Blog” A Blogger’s Guide to Copyright, Defamation, Trademark and other Legal Issues”, a 72 page eBook written by Nicholas Carroll. He begins with a great Intro. that covers what he says may be “the most important part of this book.” Though I’m not sure I’d call it the most important part, it’s certainly some of the most interesting, and one of the two sections I’d love to see expanded in Version 2, should he ever release a second version. The meat of the book answers questions like “Can I Be Sued?”, “What is Plagiarism?” and covers issues like Fair Use, The DMCA and Defamation. A good deal of space is devoted to defense, and different laws that cover you if you manage to get yourself into trouble. He includes some interesting “Special Situations” like “food slander” that I found very interesting. He also covers the people we need to worry about coming after us for what we write. He covers threats from governments, corporations, cults and individuals. He finishes things up with a nice appendix, and a resources section that points the way to plenty of good places to find more information on topics he covered. I especially liked the “Where it’s All Going” and would love to see that section expanded in the future, it’s a great finish to a really interesting and informative quick read. I’d highly recommend this as a required read for all bloggers.
You can Order A PDF Copy at the website, http://law-of-the-blog.com/
Interesting
It is a very interesting work, however (you knew there would be a however) it is limited to those in the US. I think there are some other concerns regarding privacy and IP law especially as it relates to the EU (and Irish and EU law is that which I am most familiar).
However it is a wonderful reference for those of us in the States. While Carroll is not an attorney, and his practical advise can not be understood to be advice of counsel it is a very good volume for the common blogger, if indeed there is such an animal.
However in all countries with which I am familiar truth is the ultimate defence and opinion is never actionable, so blog away but if you wish to venture further afield this guide should prove helpful.