Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Oregon

Documentary Based on Public Information

I wish to publish a book comprised of a screenplay for a film based on affidavits and depositions which were part of a case filed in U.S. District Court, also included are various affidavits of both Plaintiff, witnesses and investigators. Many allegations made by the plaintiff concern public figures (George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, Oliver North, Theodore Shackley, William J. Casey, etc.) the plaintiff asserts were involved in various criminal activities in which her father was involved. I make it clear that the screenplay is based on the Plaintiff's accusations and at the conclusion the case is dismissed by the U.S. District Court Judge. In publishing such a work, can I be sued by any of the public figures accused in the case for liable or slander?


Asked on 5/27/06, 2:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
William Hochberg Law Offices of William Hochberg

Re: Documentary Based on Public Information

its libel, not liable. don't you do a spell czech?

to the extent you are faithfully reproducing text which is in the public record, and you explain that to your audience, you are not exposed to libel liability.

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Answered on 5/27/06, 3:36 pm


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