Defamation, Privacy, Media & Reputation Management
We know how much your reputation matters, and the impact of false or harmful statements can be long-lasting. We’ll work with you to understand the implications and act quickly to prevent further harm, whether that’s by taking legal action, seeking the removal of online content, or managing the response alongside PR and crisis teams. We’ve supported clients through it all, from social media storms to national press coverage.
What is defamation?
Defamation is when someone publishes a false statement that causes, or is likely to cause, serious harm to your reputation. There are two forms of defamation, slander and libel.
Slander
Slander is the publication of a defamatory statement in a non-permanent form, like spoken words. It can be just as damaging as written defamation, depending on what’s said and who hears it.
Libel
Libel refers to defamatory statements in a permanent format, which is written. This includes newspapers, websites, books, emails, or posts on social media. If you’ve been the target of harmful comments online or in print, we can help you take action.
Remedies
If it’s proven that a defamatory statement has caused, or is likely to cause, serious harm, the court may award a range of remedies, including: damages, injunctions, retractions, apologies, corrections and undertakings not to repeat the statement. We’ll help you decide the best route forward, based on your goals and the evidence available.
Malicious falsehood
Malicious falsehood is different to defamation. It involves the deliberate publication of false statements about you, your business, or your property, but unlike defamation, you don’t need to prove harm to your reputation. If you believe someone’s spreading miss information with intent to cause harm, we’ll help you take action.
Questions we’re often asked
Yes. There’s a strict one-year time limit from the date of publication to issue a claim, so it’s important to act quickly.
It depends on the facts of each case. The court will consider the severity of the statement and how it’s affected you in the real world.
Yes. A defendant has a range of defences, including that the statement complained of was true, that it was an honest opinion, or that it was a statement on a matter of public interest.
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