In today’s interconnected business world, your company probably has some kind of online presence. From simple websites to sales to social media, the Internet provides companies with new ways to reach current and potential customers. However, the cataclysmic changes to the way we do business have also given rise to new and unusual legal problems. To deal with Internet laws, you may want to consider the following reasons to hire an internet lawyer.
#1. Internet Law Is Fairly New.
Although the very first computer networks arrived in the 1960s, Internet use did not become widespread until the 1990s. Even so, the law is sometimes slow to catch up to culture changes, and the Internet has posed some unusual problems.
Many legal issues relate to state, local, or federal laws. However, websites may draw visitors from around the world. If a company in Florida sells products to customers in India, which country’s laws apply? It is complicated. That’s just one reason to hire an internet lawyer.
#2. Internet Laws Are Evolving.
To make things even more difficult, cyber laws continue to change. As the web evolves, new legal issues arise that current regulations may not cover. Courts and legal professionals are still interpreting some laws while drafting changes to others and creating new ones. Again, the situation can be extraordinarily complex, which is why many business owners hire an internet lawyer who can help them stay up-to-date.
#3. Most Companies Do Business Online.
Since 2014, annual worldwide retail e-commerce sales rose from 1,330 billion to 4,206 billion dollars. In fact, e-commerce sales are expected to increase by approximately 15% every year.
Almost every company has at least a rudimentary online presence. In fact, you probably bought at least one item from an online retailer this week, but only after looking at websites for several companies.
Not only do you have to be careful about how your business handles its Internet dealings, but you also need to understand how the law applies to the companies you interact with. Let’s say you want to sign a contract with a company that has a largely online presence. Your agreements with them may need to address jurisdictional problems and other legal issues related to e-commerce.
#4. Failing to Understand Internet Law Can Lead to Fines and More.
Some laws specifically relate to specific internet-related issues, like:
- Cybersecurity
- Privacy
- Taxes
- Shipping restrictions
For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) went into effect on May 25, 2018. The GDPR affects the privacy and online security of consumers. Businesses in the European Union and businesses that “target or collect data related to people in the EU” may be required to comply with this sweeping law. If EU residents use your company’s website, you may be required to comply with the GDPR or face stiff fines and other penalties.
Also, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a federal law designed to protect the privacy and safety of children under age 13. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces this law, including actions against The Hershey Company. In fact, YouTube was fined $170 million in 2019 for COPPA violations. If children use your company’s website, you need to make sure you comply with COPPA.
Hire an Internet Lawyer to Handle Your Internet Law Concerns
Attorney Richard Sierra at the Florida Small Business Center assists clients like you with business and litigation matters. As always, Our Goal Is to Help You Succeed™. For an appointment, you may call us at 1-866-842-5202 or use the contact form on our website. We represent clients throughout the State of Florida, including Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Deerfield Beach, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Orlando, Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Tampa, and surrounding communities.