Most lawyers don’t talk about game design. I think the fields have more in common than most people think, and that there are insights a lawyer can bring to the game design field. In order to do that I have to make certain things clear. There are rules for lawyers that I have to follow, and one of them is that I put these disclaimers on the table.

I’m sorry if these come off a bit strong. These disclaimers are important, and I have to be very straightforward so that there will be no misunderstandings.

I know that disclaimers are no fun for anybody. However, these are important—and short! Please read them carefully.

1. This blog draws on the law as it discusses game design. It therefore talks about the law a lot. However, nothing on this blog is legal advice. You should never, ever rely on the discussion of the law here when you are dealing with a legal problem you are having. The discussion here is very general; it is not tailored to your situation. If you try to rely on the discussion here you may hurt yourself and potentially others. Don’t do it!

If you need or want legal advice to deal with a problem in your own life, contact your local bar association. Every bar association I have ever heard of has a referral service. They will put you in contact with a lawyer who can help you.

2. I am a lawyer—a member of the Pennsylvania bar. However, I am not your lawyer. You are not my client. Nothing on this blog changes that.

Again, if you need a lawyer, contact your local bar association. They will be happy to put you in touch with someone who can help.

On a related point, if you need legal advice, do not contact me through this blog. This blog is not an advertisement for a legal practice; it is a place to discuss game design. I can’t emphasize this enough: If you need a lawyer, contact your local bar association.

OK! I said they’d be short, and I’ve tried to keep my promise. Click here to go back to the on-topic articles.