Short not legal advice disclaimer example
Use this concise version when space is limited. Replace the bracketed text and make sure it accurately describes your situation.
This content provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Full legal advice disclaimer template
This longer version provides additional context. Review every sentence before publishing and remove language that does not apply.
LEGAL INFORMATION DISCLAIMER The information on [Website Name] is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney licensed in the appropriate jurisdiction. Use of this website, including sending a message through it, does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and [Company or Author Name]. Do not send confidential information unless a formal professional relationship has been established. Laws and regulations change and may be interpreted differently depending on the facts and jurisdiction. [Website Name] does not guarantee that the information is complete, current or applicable to your situation.
Important: This general template is educational information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, industry and platform. Have a qualified professional review high-risk or regulated uses.
When to use a legal advice disclaimer
- Legal information blogs
- Document and policy generators
- Educational courses about law
- Software that summarizes legal material
How to write the disclaimer
- Say that the content is general information, not individualized legal advice.
- Clarify that use of the site does not create an attorney-client relationship.
- Warn users not to send confidential information before engagement.
- Identify jurisdiction limits where appropriate.
Disclaimer examples by use case
The same core message is phrased slightly differently depending on who is publishing it.
- Law firm blog: “This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship with [Firm Name]. Contact us or another licensed attorney for advice about your specific situation.”
- Legal tech or document generator: “[Product] is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Documents generated here are templates that may need review by a lawyer licensed in your jurisdiction.”
- Non-lawyer educator: “I am not a lawyer. The information in this course reflects my own research and experience and should not be relied on as legal advice.”
For firms, the disclaimer also has to sit alongside professional conduct obligations. The American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct are the usual reference point for what a website may and may not say.
Legal advice disclaimer FAQ
Does this disclaimer create attorney-client privilege?
No. A public disclaimer does not itself establish privilege or a professional relationship. Engagement procedures and applicable professional rules control.
Can a template generator provide legal documents?
A generator can provide general starting points, but the output may not fit every jurisdiction or factual situation. High-stakes documents should be reviewed by a qualified attorney.
Do non-lawyers need this disclaimer?
It can help clarify that educational material is not professional advice, but it does not permit unauthorized legal practice.
What does “not legal advice” mean?
It explains that legal information is general educational content and does not create an attorney-client relationship or replace advice from a qualified lawyer.
Where should the disclaimer go?
Place it near legal information, generators, templates, compliance commentary and other pages where readers might mistake general information for personalized advice.