Side Bar
Bite-sized stories and real-world breakdowns that turn curious humans into legally literate adults.
Welcome to side bar
This is a space for clear, thoughtful conversations about the legal side of everyday life. Here, you’ll find practical explainers, relatable stories, and timely insights on topics that quietly shape your world — from adulting and money to family, work, housing, justice, and what’s unfolding in the news.
You don’t need to be an expert to understand how the law affects your life. Side Bar is here to help you learn the rules in a way that feels approachable, useful, and human — so you can make informed decisions with more confidence and a lot less overwhelm.
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How to Protect Your Content as a Creator
Delve into the complex world of copyrights and trademarks from both sides: how you can protect what you create and avoid getting into trouble when using others’ content.
Medical Aid in Dying Isn't Suicide.
In this blog, we get to the bottom of what “medical aid in dying” actually is. How is it different from euthanasia and assisted suicide, and why is that difference not just legal hairsplitting but the entire point?
Is a Citizen’s Arrest Real, or Just for the Movies?
Can you actually yell, "Stop right there, sir! I am but a humble citizen, but I am placing you under arrest, and I'm going to detain you until the police arrive.” The short answer is yes. But it’s a lot narrower (and riskier) than you think.
Divorce Isn't Just Legal. Nobody Warns You About the Rest.
Divorce changes more than your legal status. Learn how to prepare your money, manage divorce brain, and find the support you need to move forward.
Can You Really Erase an Arrest From Your Record?
Think a dismissed case just disappears? Think again. Brooke breaks down expungement, record sealing, and how to actually get a second chance.
Can I Use That? What You Actually Own on the Internet
We see this all the time. People post a professional photo and write "PC: [Photographer Name]" or "No copyright infringement intended." I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but saying you didn't mean to break the law doesn't mean you didn't break the law. It’s like telling a police officer, “No speeding intended,” while you were doing 90 in a 40.
Common Law Marriage: The Myth That Won't Die
No, there's no "seven-year rule." Brooke Hardie breaks down the real requirements for common law marriage—and why there's no such thing as a common law divorce.