Pepperell, MA asked in Copyright, Internet Law and Intellectual Property for Massachusetts

Q: Can I legally add the word 'fund' to the url for a website?

I am not a registered nonprofit or charity, but I help fundraise for one. Example: billsfund.org

2 Lawyer Answers
Jonathan R. Roth
Jonathan R. Roth
Answered
  • Salem, MA
  • Licensed in Massachusetts

A: It could be considered a material misrepresentation unless there is an agreement in place that protects, you, the charity and the donor.

1 user found this answer helpful

John Espinosa
John Espinosa
Answered
  • Lowell, MA
  • Licensed in Massachusetts

A: There is no apparent copyright issue, but there may be other business, trademark, taxation, and other legal issues implicated here depending on the nature of what you are doing. For example, if you are talking about being a professional fundraiser for existing charities, this would apply: http://www.mass.gov/ago/doing-business-in-massachusetts/public-charities-or-not-for-profits/soliciting-funds/professional-fundraiser-guide.html

You should consult with an attorney of your own, and also consult with the legal counsel for the nonprofit you are fundraising for.

1 user found this answer helpful

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.