Who is the father of Marketing?

Is it legal for someone to use my deceased father's name and life story as a marketing tool in their business?

• Answer:

  I agree that your father's intellectual property is part of his estate, but before you jump to a legal conclusion, think about your father's wishes. If he gave them permission to use his story in his lifetime, or if the publisher of the story is a good friend, maybe there is more to it than just a marketing initiative. It could be an honest memorial or if it's a truly heartwarming story, why would you not want the company to spread the word of your father's heroism, as long as it's done in a positive way? If you are concerned, I would first politely talk with the company that is using the story and ask why they are doing it and if it is for capital gain, request that they stop using it. After that, if they don't comply, then you can drag the legal/estate issues into the mix.