Q: Can I be liable for what others state on Facebook if I'm a administrator or moderator of a group?
Have a civil case in VA where a person is trying to sue me for what others are stating on a Facebook Page. I'm one of the administrators of the page, however, I don't really monitor the page much. I understand the basics of libel, however if someone people are stating things that might be libel, would I or the moderators of the private group be held liable for what is said?
A:
Generally...no. If you did absolutely nothing else to "re-publish" the statement, then there's almost no possible way that the plaintiff can allege you engaged in any wrongdoing. It would only be wrong if you know that information posted is wrong, and defamatory (impugns on the reputation of another), and you take actions to "re-publish" that information to others (ex: re-post the information yourself; re-open a closed discussion on the topic; etc.).
If you are already being sued by this individual, you may want to consult a defamation attorney to represent you. Odds are the case can be thrown out against you.
1 user found this answer helpful
A: It will depend on what type of liability the adverse party may claim. Remember, the party bringing the claim has the burden of proof to demonstrate the liability that is being claimed. Each clam has its own elements to prove so a general questions as to liability is to broad to answer.
1 user found this answer helpful
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