Appropriation occurs when a defendant uses a plaintiff’s name, likeness, or image without their permission for commercial purposes. Appropriation is one of several torts falling under the category of invasion of privacy. When a defendant uses a plaintiff's name or likeness for a newsworthy purpose, however, this does not fall under the tort of appropriation and can be used as a defense by defendants.
Generally in an appropriation case, the plaintiff must prove several elements. California Jury Instructions regarding appropriation set out 5 essential factual elements for jurors.
- The defendant used the plaintiff’s name or likeness,
- The plaintiff did not consent,
- The defendant gained a commercial benefit (or some other advantage),
- The plaintiff was harmed, and
- The defendant’s conduct was a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff’s harm.
Jurisdictions differ slightly on these elements but they generally follow this format.
- See e.g., Blanch v. Koons 485 F. Supp. 2d 516 (2007).
In dealing with water rights, appropriation refers to the assignment of a permanent legal right over a specific amount of water under the prior appropriation doctrine.
[Last updated in May of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]
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