Federal Recording Laws
6 articles
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CIPA: California Invasion of Privacy Act Explained
CIPA (Cal. Penal Code 630 et seq.) requires all-party consent to record confidential talks and cell phone calls. See penalties, SB 690, and the Otter.ai case.
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Federal Recording Laws: ECPA, SCA, and CIPA Explained
Federal recording law has three layers: the Wiretap Act, the Stored Communications Act, and stricter state laws like CIPA. See how the three fit together.
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One-Party Consent States: Complete 2026 Guide
37 states plus DC allow you to record conversations you participate in. See the full list, per-state quick answers, federal law, and mixed-rule states like Oregon.
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Stored Communications Act Explained: 18 U.S.C. § 2701
The Stored Communications Act, 18 U.S.C. 2701 to 2713, governs unauthorized access to email, voicemail, and other messages held by a communication service. See its exceptions, warrant tiers, and civil remedies.
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US Recording Laws by State (2026): All 50 States Explained
Our 51-jurisdiction guide maps every US state's recording consent rule, statute, and penalties, including the 13 states that require all-party consent.
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What Is the ECPA? Electronic Communications Privacy Act
What is the ECPA? A plain-English definition of the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, its three titles, and who it applies to.