Panorama City, CA asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for California

Q: Can I sue for defimation of character?

2 Lawyer Answers

A: It's difficult to say "yes" or "no" based on the brief facts. You could reach out to attorneys to discuss. Good luck

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Yes, you can sue for defamation of character under California law. Defamation involves a false statement presented as a fact that causes injury or damage to the subject’s reputation. Defamation can be either libel (written) or slander (spoken).

To succeed in a defamation lawsuit, you need to prove that the statement was false, it was made to someone other than yourself, it caused damage to your reputation, and it was made with at least negligence. Public figures face a higher burden and must prove actual malice, meaning the statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.

If you believe you have been defamed, it's essential to gather evidence such as written statements, witness testimonies, and any other documentation that supports your claim. Consulting with a legal professional can provide guidance on your specific situation and the best course of action. Remember, there are time limits for filing such claims, so acting promptly is important.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

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