If a person or publication has harmed your reputation by making false statements about you, it may be considered defamation. Defamation law seeks to balance freedom of expression and the protection of reputations. The intentional false communication can be expressed through writing or spoken statements and must be published to one or more persons. The written and spoken means of communication are referred to as libel and slander. If libel or slander occurs and it accuses you of committing a crime, contracting a feared disease or being unfit to perform your occupation, there may be means for financial compensation.
To bring a successful defamation claim you must establish that:
- The statement was defamatory of you and your reputation was tarnished in the eyes of right-thinking individuals.
- The statement was communicated ("published") to one or more people.
What can I do if I believe someone has made a defamatory statement against me? You may be able to:
- Claim financial compensation to restore you to the position you would have been in had the statement not been said.
- Obtain an injunction to stop further publication.
- Ask for a correction or retraction of the statement.
- Be awarded punitive ("exemplary") damages which are intended to punish the Defendant
Kennedy Spanner can assist in assessing your case and ensuring the correct defamation action is taken. Your reputation is of utmost importance to us, and we will work tirelessly to restore the good name of our clients.
If you believe you have a defamation case fill out the contact form to talk to our expert team.