Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using Lapel (“the Service”), operated at lapel.app, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, do not use the Service.

2. Description of Service

Lapel is a lobbying intelligence platform that aggregates publicly available lobbying registration data filed with the North Carolina Secretary of State pursuant to NC General Statutes Chapter 120C. We also incorporate publicly available federal procurement data, NC legislative bill information, and AI-generated analysis.

3. Data Accuracy

Lapel compiles data from public government sources and provides it for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness, timeliness, or accuracy of any data. Lapel does not replace official government records. Users should verify critical information against primary sources, including the NC Secretary of State's office.

4. Acceptable Use

You agree not to:

• Scrape, crawl, or systematically download data beyond normal use of the Service
• Redistribute Lapel data as a competing service
• Use the Service for harassment, defamation, or illegal purposes
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the Service
• Interfere with or disrupt the Service or its infrastructure

5. Attribution & Newsroom Use

You may reference Lapel data in reporting, policy briefs, and internal analysis, provided you attribute the underlying NC Secretary of State filing source. For enterprise or newsroom licensing arrangements, contact hello@lapel.app.

6. Accounts & Subscriptions

Some features require account registration. You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account credentials. Paid subscriptions are billed through Stripe and may be cancelled at any time. Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis.

7. AI-Generated Content

Lapel uses artificial intelligence to generate headlines, editions, and analytical summaries. AI-generated content is provided for informational purposes and may contain errors or inaccuracies. AI-generated content does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice.

8. Intellectual Property

The Lapel platform, brand, design, and original analysis are the intellectual property of Lapel. Underlying lobbying data is public record under NC law. You retain ownership of any content you create using the Service.

9. Limitation of Liability

The Service is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind. Lapel shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from your use of the Service, including but not limited to decisions made based on data or analysis provided by the Service.

10. Modifications

We may update these Terms at any time. Continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms. Material changes will be communicated via email or in-app notice.

11. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Wake County, North Carolina.

12. Contact

Questions about these Terms? Email us at hello@lapel.app.