Expert: Susan Rand - 12/5/2006

Question
I want to write a non-fiction low budget feature about an actual event that took place in my city.  If I indicate that it is based on true events, can I still use the actual peoples' names without getting into legal trouble?

Answer
Hello John:

I'm a little puzzled by "a non-fiction low budget feature..." Is this going to be a book, article or...?

Newspapers do this all the time, so I don't know why you can't. So long as you don't tell lies on someone that actually hurts them (that is, their income), or commit libel on them, I don't see any problem.

Of course you are free to write anything you like, but if you intend to publish, you and your publisher will have to decide whether it will fly as you have written it.

I hope this helps. If it does, a nice rating would be greatly appreciated. I am proud of my high score over 850 questions.

And good luck with your writing!