Legal doesn’t have to be scary, but it can get expensive fast when you ignore it.
In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando talk with Bobby Klinck, founder of Plainly Legal, about how solopreneurs can protect their businesses early without getting overwhelmed. Bobby explains why legal mistakes often work like “time bombs,” the quick prevention steps that save thousands later, and where solopreneurs commonly waste money paying for legal help they could have handled themselves.
1) Prevention is cheaper than cleanup.
Most legal pain is avoidable with small early steps.
2) Do the simple checks yourself first.
Before paying anyone, run a basic name search (Google + trademark database) to catch obvious conflicts.
3) Assume content is copyrighted unless you have permission.
Images, music, clips...don’t use them unless you license them, use free-use sources, or create your own.
4) If money changes hands, get terms in place.
Programs, services, digital products...clear terms reduce confusion and conflict.
5) Contractors may own what they create, unless your agreement says otherwise.
Protect your business assets with the right clause in writing.
What legal documents does a solopreneur need on their website?
At minimum, a privacy policy is commonly required. Terms of use and other disclaimers may not be legally required in every case, but they’re best practice, especially if you sell products, collect emails, or run a membership/community.
Can I use images from Google or social media if I credit the creator?
Usually no. Copyright law typically requires permission or a proper license. Use stock sites, free-use libraries, your own assets, or AI-generated images (with the tradeoff that AI outputs may not be copyright-protectable).
Should I use ChatGPT to edit legal templates?
It can help with limited tasks like rewriting a clause more clearly, but it may also repeat incorrect legal assumptions (like what LLCs do and don’t protect). Use common sense, keep changes narrow, and consider professional review for high-stakes agreements.
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About Bobby Klinck
Bobby helps entrepreneurs who are building online knowledge brands to get their legal protection in place quickly, easily, and affordably.
About the Show
The Aspiring Solopreneur helps one-person business owners grow smarter, avoid burnout, and build businesses that support their lives, not consume them. Hosted by Carly Ries and Joe Rando, the show features practical strategies, real conversations, and expert insights for modern solopreneurs.
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