Then again, maybe he's just burnt out from running these sites and this was the final straw. I can understand if he wants to pack it in after so long, and this is as good reason as any to call it a day.
Though, has no-one in that community offered to take over? Forums do change hands now and then.
How much money should he spend on a lawyer to figure this out for him?
Would you be willing to risk personal liability for your interpretation of this law? Obviously I would not.