8 Ingredients of a Safe and Sound Release Form

In a previous post (Trials, Traumas, and Tragedies, Oh My), I went on and on about the difficulties of writing (and editing) a book based on your personal testimony. I mostly focused on the importance of getting the subjects in your story to sign a release form. So after all that, I knew it wouldn’t be right for me to talk all that noise about releases and not talk about how to draw up a quick and easy release. Here goes a simple list of things to put in your release form.

• Make a statement saying that the story is being told in your own words.
• Include a line that allows the person to declare that what is being said about them is true.
• Have something saying that the person is giving you permission to use their story in your book—and name the book.
• Ensure that a word is said about the story being edited for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Let it be said that there could be a possibility that their story may not make the final edit and may be left out of the book when all is said and done.
• Inform them that they will not be compensated for their testimony appearing in your book.
• Have a statement that lets them know that they have the option to decline the opportunity to be in your book.
• Finally, enclose all the pages of the book (or manuscript) that tell their story and even the ones that just make reference to their story.

Now let me just say this: it is always wise to run your releases and stories by an attorney who specializes in libel issues. Let me also say that having a release may not always keep you from being liable for any damage caused by your storytelling, but it can minimize your risk.