Many states in the US have strict laws against "unlicensed practice of law" -- which includes giving advice. This is why many American commenters feel the need

Many states in the US have strict laws against "unlicensed practice of law" -- which includes giving advice. This is why many American commenters feel the need to add an "I Am Not A Lawyer" disclaimer when commenting on any legal issues. I doubt if the IANAL acronym would be enough, though. Either spell it out, or leave it out.