199. This Wedding Photographer Story is a Legal Nightmare

In this episode, I’m diving deep into one of the questions I get asked the most: Can’t I just use ChatGPT to write my contract?  I get it. It’s quick, free, and sounds pretty legit. But the truth? It’s not even close to legally safe.In fact, my legal team and I ran a little experiment. We asked ChatGPT to generate a contract for a wedding photographer and then sat down and tore it apart, clause by clause. In this behind-the-scenes breakdown, I’m walking you through exactly what AI gets wrong (and occasionally right), and why your contracts should never be left up to a robot. You have worked too hard to build your business and reputation, don’t risk losing it all to an AI drafted contract. Stay protected with attorney-approved contracts at TheLegalPaige.com and have peace of mind knowing you’re legally legit. What You’ll Learn:The biggest legal risks of using AI-generated contracts (and what they miss every time)Why vague legalese isn’t doing you or your clients any favorsThe 20+ essential clauses ChatGPT completely forgot to includeWhat plain language contracts really look like (and why they matter in court)Why industry-specific legal protections are key to avoiding nightmare client situationsLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

Hey friends! This week I’m joined by my partner at Griffith Suazo Law, Alisha Suazo, and we’re answering your most burning questions that we see come up time and time again inside our Facebook Group, inbox, and DMs. These are real-life scenarios that get sticky (and expensive) if you’re not prepared and informed. Today, we’re giving you the clarity and language you need to navigate these sticky situations with confidence. From handling chargebacks, cancellations, travel fees, and refunds to whether or not a client’s initials count as a signature (spoiler: not really)... we’re breaking down real situations, legal best practices, and the contract and clauses you need to protect your business. If you’ve ever second-guessed how to respond to a client or want to better understand what your contract actually covers in a crisis situation, tune into this episode now. What You’ll Learn:What makes a contract legally binding (and what doesn’t)Why waiting to sign a contract can give you leverageHow to handle last-minute cancellations and refund requestsWhat to do when a client pushes back on your pricing or travel policyHow to protect yourself from chargebacks, review threats, and venue overreachWhy contract enforcement is just as important as having a contractMentioned in This Episode:BLOG: How and When to Use a Cancellation Contract Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:Fee & Retainer ClauseRight to Adjust Pricing ClauseTravel Fee Clause for PhotographersRefund ContractCancellation ContractModel Release FormCredit Card Authorization & Chargeback ClauseLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

In today’s episode I’m sharing a few of my absolute favorite low-lift legal moves that go a long way in protecting your business. These aren’t giant, complicated legal steps that require a full day blocked on your calendar, instead, they’re simple, impactful, and honestly things you can probably tackle this week.I’m walking through the quick legal wins I always recommend to clients when they’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the "I’ll-get-to-it-later" zone. If that’s you, this episode will be your gentle but firm push to get legally legit with less stress.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The small contract tweaks that make a big difference in protecting youThe one thing every service provider should add to their contract this yearWhy refund and rescheduling policies are your silent superheroesThe easiest way to protect your website and content with one documentMy go-to clause for setting boundaries in your client relationshipsMentioned in This Episode:Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:TLP Shop: Website Terms & Conditions + Privacy PolicyTLP Shop: Independent Contractor AgreementTLP Shop: General Service AgreementLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

In this milestone episode of the Legally Legit Podcast, I’m giving you the full behind-the-scenes download on something that’s been a game-changer in my business—masterminds.I’m breaking down the masterminds I’ve joined (the good, the amazing, and the ones I’d never recommend), including my honest thoughts on Jasmine Star’s mastermind and what made it such a powerful, high-impact experience for me. Plus, I’m sharing a few horror stories from masterminds-gone-wrong and the red flags to look for before you write that big check.If you’ve ever wondered, “What do people even do in a mastermind?” or “Is it really worth the investment?” you’ll want to listen to this episode. I’m walking you through exactly what to expect, what makes a mastermind legit, and how to know if you’re in the right season of your business to join one. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The difference between masterminds and group coaching programs (yes, there’s a BIG difference!)Red flags to watch out for when choosing a mastermindHow to make the most out of the experience if you do join oneMy unfiltered review of Jasmine Star’s mastermind and why it worked so wellWhy being in the right room with the right people can completely shift your businessLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

Today’s episode dives into a legal mess that’s making waves in the wedding photography world. Imagine this: over 30 couples paid a photographer in full for their wedding photos—and got nothing in return. Some of those weddings were photographed by associate shooters who are now caught in the middle, unsure if they can (or should) release the images to the clients. So what happens next?I’m breaking down the copyright laws, legal rights, and ethical responsibilities that every associate photographer needs to know. If you’ve ever second shot for another photographer or think you might in the future, this episode is a must-listen!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Who actually owns the photos when no contract is in place.The copyright rights of associate photographers and second shooters.Whether associate shooters can legally send images to couples.Why a simple licensing agreement can protect you from legal trouble.The legal options that scammed couples have to fight back.Mentioned in This Episode:Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:TLP Shop: RAW File Purchase Agreement BundleTLP Shop: Second Shooter ContractTLP Shop: Associate Photographer ContractsLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

AI is everywhere—whether you’re using it to streamline workflows, generate content, or enhance images, it’s likely already a part of your business. But did you know how you use AI can impact copyright law and even put you at legal risk if you’re not disclosing it correctly?In this episode, I’m diving into why AI disclosures are becoming essential for business owners and what the US Copyright Office is saying about AI-generated content. From a real-life case of a photographer’s AI-edited image getting rejected for copyright registration to the ethical and legal risks of AI in contracts, I’m covering everything you need to know to stay legally legit in the AI era.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why AI-generated content may not be copyrightable (and what that means for you).How the US Copyright Office is handling AI disclosures in copyright registrations.The legal and ethical risks of using AI for contracts, marketing, and content creation.Where and how to disclose AI use in your business (client contracts, website policies, and more).Why failing to disclose AI-generated work could land you in legal trouble.Mentioned in This Episode:Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:TLP Shop: AI Disclaimer Clause for Photographers and VideographersTLP Shop: AI Disclaimer Clause for Website Terms & ConditionsTLP Shop: AI Disclaimer Clause for Service ProvidersTLP Shop: Website Terms & Conditions + Privacy Policy TemplateLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

Imagine scrolling the web and suddenly finding your own photo or content for sale on a major stock image site—without your permission. That’s exactly what happened to one of our listeners, and let me tell you, it’s more common than you think.In this episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about DMCA takedowns—your secret weapon for getting stolen content removed from the internet. Whether you’re a photographer, content creator, or business owner, you need to know how to fight back when someone takes your work without permission.If you’ve ever had your content stolen, you’re not powerless. Use the legal tools at your disposal and take back control of your work.Stay legally legit, and I’ll see you next week for another important legal deep dive!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What the DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) is and how it protects your content.When and why you should file a DMCA takedown request.The exact steps to find and report stolen content on major platforms.What to do if someone files a counter notice against your takedown request.How to proactively protect your work and stop content theft before it happens.Mentioned in This Episode:Download our Free DMCA Takedown Guide: https://thelegalpaige.com/dmca Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:TLP Shop: Website Terms & Conditions + Privacy Policy TemplateLinks and Resources:Need 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeGet the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

In this episode of the Legally Legit Podcast, we’re diving into a topic that so many business owners struggle with—letting go of team members who are wonderful people but just aren’t the right fit for your business.I’m getting real about my own experiences with hiring and firing, the mistakes I made by holding onto people for too long, and how that impacted my business growth. If you’ve ever felt guilty about letting someone go or questioned whether you’re making the right decision, this episode is for you.I’ll walk you through the mindset shifts you need to make, the legal steps to take when offboarding a contractor or employee, and how to build a team that actually moves your business forward.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why keeping the wrong team members can slow your business down (even if they’re amazing people).How to recognize when it’s time to let someone go and do it the right way.The impact of holding onto underperforming team members on your leadership and company culture.The legal must-haves when terminating employees or contractors (contracts matter!).How to build a high-performing team that aligns with your business’s long-term goals.Mentioned in This Episode:Shop contracts, clauses and more at thelegalpaige.com:TLP Shop: Independent Contractor Agreement TemplateTLP Shop: Employment Handbook TemplateLinks and Resources:Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeNeed 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Get the Inside Scoop on The Legal Paige's sales: tlpinsider.com

In this episode of the Legally Legit Podcast, we’re diving into every business owner's worst nightmare; harassment, fraudulent reviews, and the fight to protect your reputation online.I’m joined by Stephanie Robinson, a Denver-based micro-wedding and elopement photographer, who shares her shocking experience with online harassment. What started as an innocent dining review quickly spiraled into a campaign of fake reviews, online attacks, and legal battles that no business owner should ever have to face. Stephanie walks us through every step she took, from police reports to protection orders to tackling fraudulent Google reviews, and what you can do if you ever find yourself in a similar situation.This is a must-listen if you want to be prepared for the realities of running an online business in today’s digital world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The legal steps Stephanie took to fight the online attack, including filing for a protection order and working with law enforcement.The frustrating reality of getting fake Google reviews removed (and why it’s so hard!).What reputation management firms can do and what to watch out for when hiring one.The best strategies for protecting your business from online defamation and harassment.Mentioned in This Episode:Download our FREE How to Legally Protect Your Business from Social Media Attacks and Bad Reviews Guide: https://thelegalpaige.com/social/ Links and Resources:Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaigeNeed 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  

Welcome to the official first episode of The Legally Legit Podcast! Yes, you read that right—we have a brand-new name, and let me tell you, the story behind it is WILD ONE.To kick off Season 7 of the show, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a trademark battle that nearly forced me to rebrand everything I’ve built from the ground up. It was an 18-month legal rollercoaster that could have cost over $50,000 in legal fees—all because I made one crucial mistake when it came to trademarking my brand.I’m breaking down exactly what happened, what I did right, what I did very wrong, and the big takeaways you NEED to know so you don’t end up in the same mess. If you’ve ever wondered when (or if) you should trademark your business name, tagline, or program name—this is your wake-up call!Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take action now to secure your business name, tagline, and everything you’ve worked hard to build.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How a simple tagline turned into a full-blown legal battle.The exact steps to take before using a brand name, slogan, or tagline.Why trademarking isn’t just for big businesses—it’s crucial for entrepreneurs, too.What happens when someone else files for a trademark before you do.The real costs of fighting a trademark opposition (and how to avoid them).My #1 piece of advice to legally protect your brand from day one.Mentioned in This Episode:Download our FREE Trademark & Brand Protection Guide: https://thelegalpaige.com/trademark/ Looking for 1:1 legal support for your business? https://griffithsuazolaw.com/  Links and Resources:Join the TLP Facebook Community, a safe space to ask any questions related to the law or your business: https://tlpfacebook.com/ Visit The Legal Paige for contract templates, blogs, and additional legal resources: https://thelegalpaige.com/ Follow me on Instagram: instragram.com/thelegalpaige