Is it illegal to use someone's name in a story that you know?

Question

I'm writing something, and it involves the use of my teachers' names. Is it illegal to use these names without permission if I am just going to submit the writing to a writers' club within the same school?

Answer 1

As long as the story is true, they cannot sue you for slander/libel. Yes, it is legal, but it might be awfully costly in terms of day to day getting along.

Answer 2

Technically yes, it is illegal in SOME states, but there are no federal laws protecting ones right of publicity. There is the phrase "intellectual property rights" which basically means you have to receive approval to use someone's name in literary or artistic works. A person's name is part of their personal property. See the link below from the Literary Law Guide.

Answer 3

yes it is. you would need to obtain the persons permission first, after all it is thier name and have the right to decide how it's used.

Secondly, once you turn in your story you have no way of knowing who else is going to see it, and what they can do with it. It's always best to cover your butt.

Answer 4

Yes, technically speaking, it is illegal. However, I suggest you just ask your teachers if you can use their names in your story. I doubt they'll say no, and if they do, just change the name.