Bound By Law uses a comic book to respond to questions about copyright law (e.g., "what is fair use?"), and the role that these laws can play in a digital context. It is a "graphic novel" that explores the effects of intellectual property on digitally produced documentary film.

Specifically, the comic stars Akiko, a curvaceous, muscular heroine/filmmaker who is planning to shoot a documentary about a day in the life of New York City in the United States. This character brandishes a laser gun as she fends off a cyclopean "Rights Monster", all the while learning copyright law basics, including the line between fair use and copyright infringement. Through the story of her experience, the comic aims to translate law into plain English and abstract ideas into "visual metaphors." The strategy involves showing the firsthand impact of right-to-information issues while providing details about a variety of relevant court decisions in an engaging, entertaining way. It is also a commentary on trying to make intellectual property law a benefit rather than a hindrance to modern creative work; in the words of one reviewer, the comic was "created by three law profs [professors] who worry that a growing 'permissions culture' is hurting creativity by overprotecting it."

To facilitate access to the comic, organisers have invited educational and other bulk users to purchase the printed version at a discounted rate. In addition, the comic may be read and/or printed in full online for free in a variety of versions (meant for users with various levels of connectivity/access), and is also available under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike license.

Rights.