FAQ/Fees

Our Dallas Internet and eCommerce Attorneys can help you conduct your business online. We are experienced in handling the different issues that arise in internet commerce and assisting you with keeping your website in compliance with federal and state consumer protection laws.

Here are our top 5 Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is eCommerce?
A. E-Commerce is the online transaction of business. E-Commerce usually entails the transfer of goods and services. As part of the business, eCommerce includes the gathering and use of personal information from clients. This information should be protected and information as to its use should be disclosed to the customer. There are a number of regulations including HIPAA and COPA that restrict how information may be collected, used, and secured online.

Q. Why does a company that conducts business online need a Terms of Use agreement?
A. A Terms of Use agreement governs the relationship between a website owner and its visitors. The agreement can help protect the owner from liability arising from claims of damage related to website use. The agreement can also outline intellectual property policies, such as copyright and trademark protection for the content found on the website.

Q. Should I also use a Privacy Policy in addition to the Terms of Use agreement?
A. A Privacy Policy, like a Terms of Use agreement, can protect a website owner from third-party liability arising from the use of a website. A Privacy Policy addresses privacy issues and discloses to the website user how the website owner intends to use their information. More specifically, it can outline what information the website owner intends to collect and keep, whether it will be used to contact the user, or whether it will be sold or disclosed to third parties. Privacies policies often address the steps the website owner takes to protect collected information, particularly sensitive personal information. Usually, the Terms of Use agreement makes reference to the Privacy Policy.

Q. What is the fee charged for drafting different types of eCommerce agreements?
A. We typically charge about $1,000 to prepare and customize a basic Terms of Use Agreement or Privacy Policy. The cost varies with complexity of the agreement and the business to be protected. For other matters, we normally charge either hourly or on a flat fee basis.