I have a website…now what do I need to add in terms of legal documentation? 

Before you start a website, it may be necessary to speak with an attorney to make sure which policies or terms need to be added to your website and where that information should be displayed on the website. Once you have determined which legal documentation is required there are many free or paid services. You can type in legal documents for websites into any search engine to find a service. You key in information about your business, and you receive free or paid documentation to add to your website.  

What are the most common types of legal documentation? 

• Terms of Service 

• Privacy Policy 

• Return Policy 

• Cookie Policy

Let’s talk about each one: 

Terms of Service 

The terms of service documentation let visitors to your website know what to expect when making purchases. The terms should include: 

• business name 

• public comment rules 

• who your information can be shared with and how it can be shared 

• the use of the website establishes you comply with website terms  

• the laws of your country regarding the use of your website 

The Terms of Service are usually seen in the checkout area of a commerce website or in the footer section of each page.  

Privacy Policy 

A privacy policy lets the visitors know how a website collects and processes data for a visitor. It will let the visitor know if this information is kept confidential or shared.  

Squarespace has sample messages for your privacy policy that you may review: Squarespace Privacy Policy Sample Messages

Return Policy 

A return policy is part of doing business in person or online. It is rules the retailer establishes to address a customer that is unsatisfied with their order.  

Cookie Policy

There are certain laws that require websites to notify visitors that cookies are placed on the visitor's browser. Cookies provide a pleasant experience for the visitor by tracking movement in website, keeping you registered, resuming where you left off, and other customized tasks.  

Squarespace allows you to add a clickable cookie banner and give you the ability to customize the message.  

Home Menu > Settings > Cookies & Visitor Data  

From here you can toggle beside Cookie Banner to turn on or off.  

You may customize the Cookie Banner Type, Cookie Banner Format, and the message the appears.  

Please take some time before designing your website to talk with an attorney about what documentation should appear on your website. Part of designing a great website is also knowing what legally needs to be added. Good luck!