I’m not a lawyer. I just play one at LifeTips.

In a recent case involving a large retail client, copy written by LifeTips writers made claims that certain actions and medications can “make your child feel better” and “give you relief.”

Writers, please be very careful with your wording. In today’s land of lawsuits, we have to be aware that what we say in writing and what we recommend can be taken very literally. And if these claims don’t live up to their promises, LifeTips can be held liable in a court of law.

When it comes to writing medical articles, our policy is to err on the side of safety. Do not make grand efficacy statements. Add disclaimers. Describe medications and treatments in a broad sense, and leave out recommendations that will bring a specific outcome.

Got a problem? Tell it to Judge Judy.