Son of Sam law

noun

-ˈsam-
: a law preventing criminals from profiting from media depictions (as in books or films) of their crimes

Word History

Etymology

after Son of Sam, pseudonym of serial killer David Berkowitz, whose profits from the sale of his story a 1977 New York statute attempted to divert to his victims

Browse Nearby Words

solvent
Son of Sam law
sophisticated investor
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Cite this Entry

“Son of Sam law.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/Son%20of%20Sam%20law. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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