When you’re looking for legal information online, it can be hard to know what’s trustworthy. These tips can help you decide whether the information on a site is reliable:
Who Runs the Site?
Look for clear information about who created, contributes to, or sponsors the site. Reliable sites make it easy to find names, contact details, and sometimes a phone number or address. For example, the People’s Law Library lists its contributors at the bottom of every page.
When Was It Updated?
Laws change often, so the site should show the date each page of legal content was last reviewed for accuracy—not just when the page design was updated. For example, the bottom of every legal content page on this website has information about the last date the material was updated for any reason.
Does it Apply to Your State?
Many laws (like divorce, custody, or small claims) vary by state. A good site will tell you what jurisdiction (federal, state, or county) the information covers. If a website displays general legal information, the site should clearly state that the legal content may not apply in your location. On this site, for example, the articles are based on Maryland law unless otherwise noted.
Is It Legal Advice?
Websites should clearly state whether they provide general legal information or actual legal advice. Unless it’s a law firm’s site, the content should not be considered legal advice. For example, this website includes a statement at the bottom of each page that indicates the site provides legal information, not legal advice.
How Are Links Explained?
Each link to other websites should include a description of where the link goes, what kind of content is on the website, and its relevance to your problem.
Are Sources Cited?
The website should have links to relevant sources of law, including case law and statutes. The site should include information about the source of the law (the “citation”). The People's Law Library has numerous legal citations throughout the site.
Can You Find Legal Help?
Where appropriate, the website should include information on how and where to obtain legal advice or additional information.
Is Permission Shown for Outside Content?
If the website contains material from books, magazines, or other websites (i.e., any material created by someone else), it should show that it obtained permission to publish the content. Many pages on the People's Law Library contain a source statement at the bottom of the page.
How Does the Site Make Money?
For-profit websites should clearly explain how they are funded. If they charge fees, the site should display “Terms and Conditions” that outline costs, refund policies, and how disputes are handled.
Is Your Privacy Protected?
Check the privacy policy before entering personal details. Does the site share or sell your information? Does it provide the information to other affiliated companies? Can you opt out? If you’re entering sensitive data (like a credit card), make sure the site is secure (look for a padlock icon near the website address).
For more guidance, see the American Association of Law Libraries' Guide to Evaluate Legal Information.