So, you’ve poured your heart into writing, chosen the perfect photos, and are ready to hit “publish.” But before you unleash your masterpiece upon the world, let’s take a step back and go through a checklist to make sure you’re not accidentally stumbling into a legal minefield.

(Disclaimer: This list isn’t exhaustive, and factors may vary depending on where you’re based and who your blog’s intended audience is. This isn’t legal advice—if you need legal help, consult a lawyer!)

Here’s your ultimate pre-publish guide:

1. Using Other People’s Pictures

Sure, that breathtaking sunset photo on Instagram might look great on your blog, but unless you want a cease-and-desist letter, think twice! Here are three solid options:

• Get Permission from the Creator: A polite email asking for permission can save you a legal headache down the road. It’s not enough to just reference someone else’s picture.
• Take Your Own Photos: Your iPhone camera is surprisingly powerful—use it!
• Use Stock Photos: Websites like Unsplash, Pexels, or Shutterstock are great resources for free or paid high-quality images.

Pro Tip: Avoid using Google Images unless you’re feeling extra risky.

2. Disclaimers for Referral Links

Using affiliate links to make extra cash? That’s great! But make sure you’re transparent about it. Include a disclaimer like

“This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.”

Check to see if there are specific wording requirements for your jurisdiction (or the jurisdiction your website is aimed at).

Remember, honesty builds trust—and trust turns readers into loyal followers (and possibly earns you some sweet affiliate payouts).

Note: Different regions have strict rules for sponsored content and endorsements, so always make sure you’re compliant.

3. Sponsored Posts

If a brand is paying you to write about their product, congratulations! But don’t forget to disclose that it’s a sponsored post. You could say something like:

“This post is sponsored by [Brand Name], but all opinions are my own.”

This keeps you transparent and legal, while also earning you some credibility with your audience.

4. Don’t Violate Any Trademarks

That clever name you came up with for your blog post? It might be trademarked. Using someone else’s trademark can lead to trouble, fast. Always double-check that your titles, logos, or branding elements aren’t infringing on someone else’s intellectual property.

5. Comply with Data and Privacy Laws

If your blog collects user data—like email addresses for a newsletter—make sure you comply with privacy laws. Depending on where your audience is, you could be subject to strict regulations (think GDPR in the EU). Ignoring privacy laws can lead to hefty fines, so it’s worth the time to get it right.

6. Make It Easy to Unsubscribe

No one likes spam, and your readers should always have a simple way to opt out of marketing emails. Add an unsubscribe link in every email you send. If you don’t, you risk being flagged as a digital nuisance, and we don’t want that!

7. Don’t Skip the Legal Policies

Every blog or website should have these essential pages:

• Disclosure: Clearly state your use of affiliate links or sponsored content.
• Disclaimer: Make it clear that your content is for informational purposes only—especially if you write about sensitive topics like health or finance.
• Terms of Use: Outline the rules for using your site.
• Privacy Policy: Explain how you collect and use visitor data.

You can find free templates online, but make sure they’re tailored to your blog’s unique needs.

8. Accessibility for All

Make sure your blog or website is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. Not only does this help you reach a broader audience, but it also shows you care about inclusivity.
Tips for improving accessibility:

• Use alt text for all images.
• Ensure proper colour contrast for readability.
• Provide captions for video content.
• Make your site navigable via keyboard for those who can’t use a mouse.

9. Avoiding Plagiarism

Copying content is a no-no. Always credit your sources, and if you’re quoting or using someone else’s work, ensure it falls under fair use guidelines. Tools like Grammarly or Copyscape can help you spot accidental plagiarism before hitting publish.

Conclusion

While this checklist is a solid starting point, remember that it’s not an exhaustive list. Depending on your location and the nature of your content, there may be other factors to consider. The goal is to give you something to think about before clicking “publish” and to make sure your blog or website is ready for the world without legal complications. Whether you’re just starting out or have been blogging for years, these simple steps can help you avoid unnecessary risks and set yourself up for long-term success. And always remember, when in doubt, consult a legal professional to ensure you’re in the clear.