How does one handle 'based on a true story" issues when writing fiction?

Question

I was writing a screen play with a friend. It was based on her husband who is now deceased. She no longer wants to do it because she said thinking about him makes her feel sad. She told me I could use what I have and fictionalize the rest. I'm afraid to do that and later be sued by her (people always change when money is involved) I feel my creativity is so polluted from this project right now that it's hard to come up with something not inspired by this very quirky character.

Suggestions please????

Answer 1

change the names and keep the character. if shes your friend she wont sue u.

answer mien plz

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Answer 2

     However friendly you may be with her, and despite what she says about using her husband as a character in your book, go to a lawyer and get him to draw up a waiver, in other words, a document saying that she legally passes all rights of his character to you.  She'll have to sign it, as well as you.  Then, you're covered.

     You're quite right when you say that things can change when there's money involved.  The lawyer will charge you, obviously, but it shouldn't be too much and it's well worth it.

Good luck

Mike B