Public Figure Protection is a specialized legal service designed for celebrities, politicians, high-ranking public officials, and business leaders. Public status automatically implies a reduced standard of privacy and a higher obligation to tolerate criticism. However, this does not mean public figures are defenseless. Often, the line between legitimate public interest and gross intrusion into private life is crossed. This service aims to protect public figures from disinformation, the dissemination of private life footage, stalking, and targeted reputation destruction. Lawyers work to balance the public's right to know with the client's constitutional rights.
What does this service cover?
The public figure protection service is multifaceted and includes:
- Legal Reputation Management: Developing strategies against disinformation campaigns and immediate legal response (warning letters, lawsuits).
- Privacy Protection: Responding to paparazzi photos, publication of private correspondence, or intimate details that do not constitute legitimate public interest.
- Combating Cyberbullying and Harassment: Taking legal measures against systematic attacks, threats, and insults on social media (including police involvement).
- Intellectual Property Protection: Prohibiting the unauthorized commercial use of a public figure's name, voice, or image (e.g., in advertisements) and claiming damages.
- Family Protection: Preventing media harassment of a public figure's minor children or family members.
Common Real-World Scenarios
Public figures often need assistance in the following cases:
- Secret Recordings: A private phone conversation of a public figure is leaked online. Despite their public status, the sanctity of private communication is constitutionally protected.
- Fake Accounts: A fake profile of a celebrity is created on social media, using their name for fraud or discredit.
- Commercial Misappropriation: A company used an actor's photo on their billboard without permission. This violates the "Right of Publicity."
- Journalistic Stalking: Journalists systematically surveillance a public figure outside their home, exceeding journalistic interest and becoming psychological harassment.
Georgian Legal Framework
The rights of public figures are protected by the Constitution of Georgia (right to privacy) and the Law on Personal Data Protection. Relations with the media are regulated by the Law on Freedom of Speech and Expression, which, while imposing a high tolerance threshold, clearly distinguishes public interest from mere curiosity. Violation of the secrecy of private life is a criminal offense (Article 157 of the Criminal Code). Also, the Civil Code (Article 18) protects a person's right to their own image.
Process: How does a specialist work?
The lawyer works confidentially. First, the threat is assessed: is it a civil dispute (reputation) or a criminal offense (breach of privacy). For digital violations, the lawyer contacts platforms (Facebook, Google) demanding content removal. When dealing with media, both legal and ethical levers are used. If necessary, a court order for provisional measures (e.g., banning the dissemination of material) is obtained.
Why Legal.ge?
For public figures, reputation is capital. On Legal.ge, you will find discreet and highly qualified lawyers who understand the specifics of publicity. They know how to manage crisis situations quickly and effectively to minimize damage. Our specialists ensure the protection of your private space and dignity with the full rigor of the law. Trust Legal.ge to protect your image.
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