Questions Regarding Writing a Biography

[sandgroper]

Hello, I am currently living in Australia, but I thought that these general laws may still.

My father is writing a biography, and he has asked me to look up some law so that people can't sue him.

He was told (he may have easily misunderstood - his grasp of the english language is not so great) that if anyone recognizes someone he writes about, then he may be in trouble. Now, the people who appear in his biography are never mentioned by real name, nor are they described in great physical detail.

There is some small possibility that people may take offence at what he writes, but this is not intentional - he sees it as completely innocent (I'm sure that doesn't matter anyway). But if he does not specifically refer to people in his past, doesn't he escape any complaints?


I would appreciate any advice on this matter. Thanks.

[edit] I'm sorry if I put this in the wrong section [/edit]

 

[meganproser]

Assuming this book involves Australians, your father CANNOT be too careful.
He needs to consult a good attorney over there for advice.

There are MANY sites on the net that discuss defamation law in Australia.
Also, check out invasion of privacy torts.

 

[sandgroper]

Thanks a lot.

 

[meganproser]

You are welcome. Good luck!