In an era where people are subjected to falsehoods about them too often, it is helpful to know that it is possible to seek legal relief, where the language used against you is under such circumstances as to constitute a cause of action for defamation. Technically, where the words are false, where they are used under conditions were the law does not find the speaker or writer had no right to use them, and as a result, the target of the language is actually or assumed to be held up to hatred, contempt, ridicule, or which causes him/her to be shunned or avoided, or which has a tendency to injure him/her in his/her trade or occupation, the result could be defamation.
For example, if a person or the news media says or writes something about you that is understood to lower your reputation, or that keeps people from associating with you, defamation has occurred. Mere insults and epithets may not be enough, however, although in conjunction with discriminatory language, they could be. In addition, laws relating to defamation may be applicable to e-mail and other online activities. Although opinion itself is not actionable, under certain conditions labeling something as opinion may still make it a statement of fact dressed up as an opinion, and therefore grounds for a lawsuit.
If all this sounds as if you need an experienced lawyer to look at a situation for you, you do. Therefore, if unfortunately, this happens to you, you should contact Roy, Shecter & Vocht immediately, because the statute of limitation for a defamation claim is very short, and delay could cost you a possible claim.
1185B South Adams
Birmingham, MI 48009
Phone: (248) 540-7660
Fax: (248) 540-0321
