Writer's Fallout Shelter

This is an extremely touchy area, and usually, attorneys specializing in intellectual property get involved. Keep in mind that anyone can sue you for ANYTHING. Keep in mind, this doesn't mean they can win. Many times, suits are later dismissed because a judge considers them frivilous and without merit. I'm not an attorney, and don't pretend to understand all the nuances of literary law, but I'll share my limited understanding.

When you write about real life events, plantiffs can file suit over portions of the work that allude them. You don't have to name them. If they can "prove" a scene is based on them, and they "contend" your writing of that scene is harmful to them in any way, they can initiate litigation. If they can prove you exercised literary license (made up some harmful crap) about them, their case is strengthened.

Some obvious exemptions are celebrities and political figures who "live in public light," and the article, stories, anecdotes can be coroberated by third parties, or legal documents.

Bottom line: Be very careful when including events that feature living, breathing people. When in doubt, consult an attorney.

For more "stuff" visit:
http://LiamJackson.com

"Have you ever been caught hiding bodies in your closet? No? Good place to hide them, uh?"

Proud member of the Horror Writers Association, International Thriller Writers, and the Authors Guild