Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Florida

I am writing a memoir about abuse of many varieties during my childhood by my mothers boyfriend. The abuse happened over 25 yrs ago and he was never charged with a crime because we did not tell out of fear. I am using a different name for him in my book and plan on printing a disclaimer in the front stating that some names and stories have been changed. The stories are all true and I have several people who are willing to attest to abuse they witnessed should he try to deny the accusations written. Will this be sufficient to protect me and allow me to publish my memoir?? If not, how should I proceed?


Asked on 10/08/09, 5:09 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Sarah Grosse Sarah Grosse, Esquire

You absolutely may tell your true story. Especially if you have protected the person's identity by changing names, there is no way I can possibly think of that he could come after you for any wrong doing. Even if you name the person or his identity somehow becomes known, you are insulated from liability by the TRUTH of your statements as truth is the ultimate defense to a claim of defamation of character.

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Answered on 10/08/09, 5:34 pm


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