It is becoming increasingly clear that blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies will change the way we live our lives and do business.  Unfortunately, the regulatory and legal framework surrounding this rapidly developing area is in its infancy, making it difficult (if not impossible) for individuals and business to comply with the law.

This blog aims to track developments in crypto law to allow users, traders, start-ups, and established business to better navigate the uncertain legal landscape and understand their rights.  

Critical issues in this area include:

  • The remedies available to cryptocurrency traders that feel they have been harmed by failures on cryptocurrency exchanges or malicious action by third parties.
  • The legality of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), and whether ICOs are subject to U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (S.E.C.) rules and regulations.
  • Taxation of cryptocurrency gains and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) efforts to obtain data regarding cryptocurrency traders. 
  • Whether courts will give smart contract code the same legal recognition given to written contracts. 

This blog's author, James Taylor-Copeland, is an experienced trial attorney and cryptocurrency investor.  For more information about Mr. Taylor-Copeland, please visit his website at Taylor-Copeland Law.

Max Ambrose is a frequent contributor to the blog. He is a researcher, analyst, writer, and internal platform tester in the blockchain and cryptocurrency community. He also works in crypto-law, and anticipates receiving his California Bar license in 2018. Max often shares his fundamental and technical analysis with the community to help others learn and understand more about blockchain technology and the cryptocurrency economy.

Elnaz Shahla is a frequent contributor to the blog.  Cryptocurrency has piqued Elnaz Shahla's interest ever since she began coding four years ago. When she is not hitting the books at USD School of Law, you can find her investing and keeping on top of everything crypto. She plans on specializing in blockchain and crypto law upon graduation.