When it comes to writing a book, authors must be careful to not include any information that could lead to a lawsuit. This is especially true when it comes to using someone’s likeness, name, or identifying information for advertising, promotional, or commercial purposes. Whether the person is a private individual or public figure, the author would be liable for damages, including punitive damages.
The legal term for using someone’s likeness or identity without their permission is “invasion of privacy.” This is a form of tort law that protects individuals from having their private information or likeness used without their consent. If an author uses someone’s likeness or identity in a book without their permission, they could be sued for invasion of privacy.
The best way to avoid a lawsuit is to get permission from anyone whose likeness or identity is used in the book. If the person is a public figure, the author should be sure to use only information that is already publicly available. If the person is a private individual, the author should obtain written permission from the person before using their likeness or identity in the book.
In addition to getting permission, authors should also be aware of the laws in their state or country regarding invasion of privacy. Some states have laws that provide additional protection for individuals from having their likeness or identity used without their permission.
In conclusion, authors should be careful to not use someone’s likeness or identity in a book without their permission. If an author does use someone’s likeness or identity without their permission, they could be sued for invasion of privacy and be liable for damages, including punitive damages. The best way to avoid a lawsuit is to get permission from anyone whose likeness or identity is used in the book.