Legal support for Substack publishers
The Substack Defender program offers access to legal support as part of our efforts to uphold a free press and free speech, which we believe are fundamental to a trustworthy media system.
The program provides crucial legal protection for Substack publishers against certain types of claims, including access to advice and support for publishers who face legal uncertainty or pressure because of their work.
Defender has your back
At Substack, we are ardent defenders of a free press. We’ve seen firsthand that one of the greatest threats to that freedom is the ability of the wealthy and powerful to use spurious legal threats to silence reporting and opinions that challenge their interests.
That’s why we started Substack Defender, a legal support program for independent journalists and creators. The program provides participants who qualify with access to vigorous defense against such abuses, and contributes to a climate where people on Substack can speak freely.
Through Defender, Substack helps independent publishers oppose bad-faith legal challenges against their work. Since its launch in 2020, Defender has supported dozens of creators facing alleged defamation, trademark infringement, and copyright infringement claims, among other cases. In 2025, we expanded access to Defender, extending coverage to qualified publishers in Canada and the United Kingdom in addition to the United States.
Apply for legal assistance
If you publish work on Substack that may attract unreasonable legal pressure, consider applying for Defender.
Publishers commonly receive assistance with cases related to abuses of copyright laws, assaults on First Amendment and free expression rights, and spurious defamation claims. Applications are open to publishers based in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, who have at least fifty paying subscribers. (We are willing to make exceptions in special circumstances.)
How Defender works
Upon acceptance to the program, publishers can request help for specific cases through a legal intake form.
Substack will determine who is accepted into the program and which cases to support.
When a case is approved, Defender will refer the matter to an outside lawyer, while Substack covers associated legal fees up to a pre-authorized sum.
“Substack Defender is a tremendous program. As an independent journalist involved in investigative journalism, it is heartening to know I have someone to turn to for legal advice. And on the occasions that I needed to use Substack Defender, the guidance I received was prompt and effective.”
—Judd Legum, Popular Information
“The Defender program came in clutch when I felt genuinely scared of a potential lawsuit (and felt very alone). Having access to top-tier legal support not only helped me stand my ground but gave me the confidence to pursue stories that matter, even when they challenge powerful interests. It was a reminder to me that, with Substack, being independent doesn’t mean being alone.”
—Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, Your Local Epidemiologist
“Within hours, Substack Defender deployed legal counsel on my behalf with a response letter defending my journalism and basically telling the candidate's attorney that we looked forward to the discovery process—something that would only result in more transparency for readers. The challenge to my reporting ended right there. The program has also aided me in pre-publication review, solidifying my reporting before it ever hits inboxes. Substack Defender is an invaluable resource for independent journalists.”
—Adam Wren, Importantville
Frequently asked questions
What are the eligibility requirements for Substack Defender?
To qualify for the program as a Substack publisher, you must start by meeting all of the following criteria:
- Live in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada
- Have published at least one Substack post in the last 30 days
- Have at least fifty paying subscribers*
*While we generally require a minimum of fifty paying subscribers, we understand that some cases prove exceptional. If you currently have fewer than fifty paid subscribers, but believe you have a compelling case, we encourage you to still apply.
Note: Acceptance into the program, and acceptance of individual matters once in the program, is at Substack’s complete discretion.
When can I expect to hear back about my application?
We review applications to join the Defender program on a rolling basis. You can expect a response within one week. If you have a time-sensitive matter, please note this in your application, and we will do our best to accommodate.
If you urgently need legal assistance, do not delay your search for a lawyer while waiting to hear from Substack Defender.
What sorts of legal cases does the Defender program support?
Defender participates in legal efforts to uphold a free press and free speech, which we believe are fundamental to a trustworthy media system.
This work includes providing access to legal support for publishers accepted into the Defender program who are facing legal uncertainty or pressure because of their work on Substack. Requested support typically includes a pre-publication legal review of individual stories and responses to cease-and-desist letters, subpoenas, or formal legal claims. Since Defender launched in 2020, we’ve supported cases involving, among other things, alleged defamation, trademark infringement, and copyright infringement.
Currently, the Defender program does not cover legal advice for general business matters or newsgathering actions (e.g., FOIA requests).
Can I apply if I don’t have a legal case to submit yet?
Yes. You’re welcome to apply to the program if you meet the program’s criteria and expect that you might utilize Defender’s services down the road.
Can I refer my own lawyer to be subsidized under the program?
Yes. The idea is to make sure you have the legal support you need, and your lawyer is always your choice. If you have a lawyer you’d like to work with, please note this in your application.
Does Substack provide legal guidance?
No. Substack does not provide legal guidance or advice with respect to any claims against publishers. If you (and your case) are accepted into the Defender program, please consult with the outside lawyer assigned to your case regarding any claims against you.
What about publishers outside of the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada?
Defender currently focuses on publishers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. As Substack continues to grow, we hope to expand access to publishers in other parts of the world.
I have fewer than 50 paying subscribers, can I still apply to Defender?
While we generally require a minimum of fifty paying subscribers, we understand that some cases prove exceptional. If you currently have fewer than fifty paid subscribers, but believe you have a compelling case, we encourage you to still apply to the program for consideration. Please be sure to add a brief description of your case within your Defender application.
Is Substack Defender an insurance replacement?
No, the Substack Defender program is not insurance and not a replacement for insurance of any kind. If you carry insurance, remember to carefully review your policy when you first become aware of a possible claim.
If I am accepted into Substack Defender, what happens next?
If you are accepted into the program, the Substack team will share a case submission form for your use. You can use that form to submit details of your specific case or query to the Defender team at Substack. Based on their evaluation, they will decide whether or not to approve the matter and provide support through a participating third-party lawyer. Cases are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and acceptance of individual matters is at Subtack’s complete discretion.