Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Roe v. Wade (1973)
A public character is someone who is famous or well-known, or who has chosen to be involved in a public controversy. If a public figure sues someone for saying something untrue about them, they have to prove that the person who said it did it on purpose to hurt them. There are two types of public figures: all-purpose public figures, who are famous for everything they do, and limited-purpose public figures, who are only famous for one thing they did or were involved in.
A public character is a person who has achieved fame or notoriety or who has voluntarily become involved in a public controversy. This term is also known as a public figure.
For example, a celebrity who is constantly in the media spotlight is considered a public character. Another example is a politician who holds a public office and is known by the public.
There are two types of public figures: all-purpose public figures and limited-purpose public figures. An all-purpose public figure is a person who has achieved such widespread fame or notoriety that they are considered a public figure in all contexts. A limited-purpose public figure is a person who has become famous or notorious only in relation to a particular public issue.
For instance, a celebrity who is known for their acting skills and also actively participates in political activism can be considered an all-purpose public figure. On the other hand, a person who becomes famous for their involvement in a particular public issue, such as a victim of a crime or a witness to a significant event, can be considered a limited-purpose public figure.