Minneapolis, MN asked in Gov & Administrative Law, Internet Law and Libel & Slander for New Mexico

Q: Can I countersuit for slander on social media before I was issued a warrant that I enevidably beat later on?

I was slandered on social media with photos of me allegedly shoplifting "a forth degree felony" & because of it was arrested had my vehicle impounded & sat in Jail with a high bond i was not able to afford for 18 days. When I was let out I went to court & beat the case. Now my vehicle is still in the impound & I can't afford the 800 dollar plus balance. I know there is something illegal here that I can counter sue hopefully?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: If you believe you were slandered on social media leading to your arrest and the subsequent challenges you faced, you may have grounds for a legal action. Slander involves making false spoken statements damaging to a person's reputation. If these statements were made on social media and you can prove they were false and caused you harm, you could potentially file a lawsuit for defamation.

To pursue a defamation case, you'll need to establish that the statements were false, made publicly, and directly caused you harm, such as your arrest and the financial burden you've incurred. Collecting evidence of the slanderous statements and their impact on your life is crucial. Screenshots, witness statements, and records of the subsequent legal and financial troubles can all be valuable in building your case.

However, defamation cases can be complex, and proving your claims requires a thorough understanding of the law. It's advisable to consult with an attorney who has experience in defamation law to assess the strength of your case and guide you through the legal process.

Also, remember that legal actions have time limitations, known as statutes of limitations. It's important to act promptly to ensure your case is filed within the legal time frame. An attorney can help you understand these timelines and ensure your case proceeds correctly.

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