Asked in Criminal Law for Utah

Q: Can I press criminal defamation charges on someone in Utah if I’m out of state? If no, can I do it at any police state?

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2 Lawyer Answers
Dale S. Gribow
Dale S. Gribow
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Palm Desert, CA

A: Defamation can be slander (something said aloud) or Libel (something you read).

if the statement is made in writing and published in a paper in your state that would arguably be libel.

if oral and said in your state then you could sue in your state.

if only made in utah you might have to go there..............

no matter where it is filed the Defendant can make a motion to transfer jurisdiction saying utah is the property place to hear the case. then a judge will decide on that.

but these are very difficult case and most lawyers would only accept on hourly.......(unless the defendant is very wealthy and you can show big damages)

Catherine Cleveland
Catherine Cleveland
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • Licensed in Utah

A: No, you cannot press criminal charges against someone. Only the state prosecutor can file criminal charges.

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