: Re: How do I avoid legal repercussions for writing a story based on events in my life? How do I avoid legal repercussions for writing a story based on events in my life? Mainly, I have experienced

@Sarah872

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Here is how you can avoid legal repercussions when writing a non-fiction story based on events in your life:

Don't libel anyone;
Don't invade their privacy;
Don't put them in a false light;
Don't cause them emotional distress, either intentionally or negligently.

To know whether or not your manuscript blatantly does one (or more) of the above, you'll need to have a lawyer read it over and give you a legal opinion on whether or not you crossed the line. Of course, nothing can prevent your aggrieved ex-co-worker from still filing a lawsuit against you but at least you've done all you can to minimize the likelihood.

If your ex-co-worker was a well-known public figure then you are safer (at least in the U.S.) as the target of your writing would have to be able to demonstrate that you had actual malice towards them.

Worth reading author Terrance Blacker's thoughts on being read for libel.

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