Legal-Ease: Displaying the flag this Independence Day

Many people will be displaying American flags this week for Independence Day, and there are a series of federal laws that govern how to properly display the flag. 

The series of federal laws was initially passed in 1942, and the series is commonly referred to as the “Flag Code.” 

Most of the Flag Code has not been enforced, so it’s similar to a handbook on flag etiquette. However, some aspects of the Flag Code have been enforced. 

Legal-Ease: Legalities of ‘fake news’

The recent election cycle brought with it the rise of fake news, spread mostly through Facebook. Many people, especially those who may be embarrassed at having spread a fake news story, often wonder why creating fake news is even legal in the first place.

Legal-Ease: Courts won’t decide internal church issues

The legal system has a very limited relationship when it comes to religious organizations, especially when it comes to their internal processes. For “connective” churches, courts will generally not decide disputes regarding local church government, order, discipline, membership or authority.

Legal-Ease: Drone laws are unclear

Drones are becoming much more pervasive in our society, as both the public and private sectors find more and more uses for the aircraft. But legal restrictions on their use are still trying to catch up with drones, and lawmakers and citizens alike are often unclear on the legal (and public safety) ramifications of their use.

Legal-Ease: Flags and Independence Day

We’re right in the middle of the time of year when flags are often prominently displayed on homes throughout Ohio. While many people feel a surge of patriotism surrounding July 4 and other summer holidays, in the 1980s and 1990s flag burning and flag desecration became an issue that was frequently brought in front of the courts.