Legal Question in Personal Injury in Florida
Can Casey Anderson sell book or movie rights now that she was found not guilty?
Asked on 7/06/11, 3:25 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman
Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman
Yes. The First Amendment protects her right to do so. Courts have allowed a limited exception where states choose to prevent murderers and those convicted of other serious felonies from profiting from their stories. These are called "Son-of-Sam" laws, and are named for a notorious multiple-murder case that first inspired them. Ms. Anthony was acquitted of the felony charges against her, though, so the Son-of-Sam laws do not apply to her.
Even if Ms. Anthony had been convicted she would still have been allowed to tell her story. She just wouldn't have been allowed to profit from it.
Answered on 7/06/11, 3:32 pm