Law Myths Debunked
Separating legal facts from fiction to help you understand your rights
Understanding the people and processes that shape legal outcomes
Myths About Lawyers & Legal Proceedings
MYTH
All lawyers are the same
REALITY
Lawyers have different specialties—criminal law, family disputes, business contracts, and more. Their training, experience, and strategies can be very different. Choosing one who works in your type of case can make a big difference to the outcome.
MYTH
If you’re innocent, you don’t need a lawyer
REALITY
Even innocent people can lose in court without guidance. The legal system has complex rules, deadlines, and procedures. A lawyer protects your rights, avoids costly mistakes, and can often achieve a better outcome.
MYTH
Verbal promises aren’t valid
REALITY
A spoken agreement can still be legally binding. The hard part is proving it if the other person disagrees. Written contracts give you stronger evidence and prevent misunderstandings.
Separating crime-show fiction from real-world rules
Myths About Criminal Law
MYTH
Police must always read your rights
REALITY
Officers only have to read your rights if you’re under arrest and they plan to question you. If they don’t ask questions, the warning doesn’t apply. Missing this step doesn’t erase the case—it only affects what can be used as evidence.
MYTH
You must answer police questions
REALITY
You have the right to remain silent until a lawyer is present, except in rare legal situations. Speaking without advice could harm your case, while staying silent protects you from saying something that can be misunderstood.
MYTH
One witness isn’t enough to convict you
REALITY
If the court believes them, a single witness’s statement can be enough for a conviction. Eyewitness testimony is often accepted as strong evidence, even if it’s not always perfect.
MYTH
Refusing a breath test means no DUI
REALITY
Police can still use other evidence—like slurred speech, poor balance, or witness reports—to prove drunk driving. Refusing the test can also bring extra penalties, like losing your license.
What the law really says about relationships and belongings
Myths About Family & Property Law
MYTH
Living together makes you married
REALITY
In many places, living together—even for a long time—doesn’t give you the same rights as a married couple. Without legal registration or agreements, property and assets aren’t automatically shared.
MYTH
Divorce means a 50/50 split
REALITY
Courts aim for fairness, which may mean an unequal split depending on income, needs, contributions, and other factors. One spouse may get more if the situation requires it.
Protecting your work and planning for the future
Myths About Copyright & Estate Planning
MYTH
Writing “No copyright intended” keeps you safe
REALITY
Using someone else’s work without permission can still lead to legal trouble, even if you give credit. The safest way is to get the creator’s consent before using their content.
MYTH
If it’s online, it’s free to use
REALITY
Most online material is protected by copyright from the moment it’s created. Unless it’s marked for free use or in the public domain, you must get permission to use it legally.
MYTH
Estate planning is only for older people
REALITY
Illness or accidents can happen anytime. Estate planning ensures your wishes are clear—like who handles your affairs or who cares for your children—no matter your age.
MYTH
A will is all you need
REALITY
A complete plan can also include medical instructions, powers of attorney, and trusts. These give you control over your care and protect your assets beyond just dividing them in a will.
