Q: My ex boss lied about my leaving the company, It can have a negative effect on my new job is that slander?
I am a dental service technician. I gave a notice that I was moving to the competition. I gave a two weeks notice, boss did not accept. Asked me to leave now. He in a sales meeting told the salesman I got into a altercation with an account, and that is why I am no longer there. Is that slander? This could seriously affect my reputation as being one of the best techs.
A: One question with which courts have struggled is how to determine which standard should govern whether a statement is defamatory. Many statements may be viewed as defamatory by some individuals, but the same statement may not be viewed as defamatory by others. Generally, courts require a plaintiff to prove that he or she has been defamed in the eyes of the community or within a defined group within the community. Juries usually decide this question. Given that your boss said something that could most likely hurt your reputation, I believe you would have a case for slander.
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