Defamation, Privacy, Media & Reputation Management

Your reputation is one of your most valuable assets. Whether you're dealing with false allegations, damaging online content, or unwanted media attention, taking swift action can be crucial. We will work with you to take action to protect your reputation and prevent the publication of false statements. Our team can work alongside your public relations and crisis management teams to support you, when you need it most.

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What is defamation?  

Defamation is the publication of a statement which has caused, or is likely to cause, serious harm to the reputation of the person the subject of it. There are two forms of defamation, slander and libel.

Slander

The publication of a defamatory statement in a non-permanent form (such as spoken works).

Libel

The publication of a defamatory statement in a permanent form (such as written words). Publications can include newspapers, social media and books.

Serious financial loss

To bring a defamation claim, a business must show that the alleged defamatory statement has caused, or is likely to cause, serious financial loss. Whether serious financial loss can be established will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, including the nature of your business and the impact the statement has had on your commercial interests. We'll assess the effect the publication has had on your reputation and advise you.

Remedies

If it is proven that a statement has caused, or was likely to cause, serious harm to your reputation and has resulted, or is likely to result, in serious financial loss, remedies range from damages, injunctions, retractions, apologies, corrections and undertakings not to repeat the statement.

Questions we’re often asked

Is there a time limit to bring a claim?

Yes. There is a strict one year time limit from the date of publication to bring a claim.

What does ‘serious harm’ mean?

This will differ in the circumstances of each case. The court will consider a number of factors including the severity of the statement and evidence of the “real world” effect of the statement.

Are there any defences?

Yes. A Defendant has a range of defences, including that the statement complained of was true, that it was an honest opinion, that it was a statement on a matter of public interest.

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Thank you to Danielle for all her effort during this process, obviously not one I wanted to be in, but Danielle has made it a much clearer and less stressful one.
Commercial Dispute Resolution Client
Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK
Just wanted to say that Danielle's helpfulness, generosity of time, and straightforward way of discussing things so far have already been really refreshing regarding this awkward process. It is really appreciated.
Commercial Dispute Resolution Client
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Paula was brilliant throughout, providing help, support and advice during an incredibly long and drawn-out situation that should never have reached that point in the first place. I’m truly grateful for everything she did.
Commercial Dispute Resolution Client
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I was impressed by the team at Black Solicitors LLP. Every member of staff I dealt with was pleasant and professional, demonstrating a clear commitment to helping me rather than just driving up costs.
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My first time using blacks, I've used a few solicitors over time, working with team at Blacks has been effortless and efficient, I would be happy to recommend and use again.
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There are two stand-out individuals I feel it is necessary to mention. I have had the pleasure of working with both Andrew Morgan and Darren Morgan as part of the legal team on a recent trial. It has been clear throughout my time working with them that the client feels entirely at ease with each of them – they are trusted and have a way of ensuring the clie
Commercial Dispute Resolution Client
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Luke Patel is highly experienced in a range of disputes, often property-related. Darren Morgan brings a very calm air to matters, such that clients have great confidence in his unruffled manner. Yat Wong is particularly experienced in professional negligence matters. Aimee Hutchinson has a wide range of experience including in judicial review matters arising
Commercial Dispute Resolution Client
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Luke Patel is stand out. Very ‘savvy’. Sound judgment. On top of the issues. Deploys commercial outlook. Excellent client dealing skills.
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