Defamation: What it is and How to Respond

  • Apr 24, 2023
  • | 72
This article explains aspects of defamation and media law.

What is Defamation?

Defamation is a false 1ed statement against a person causing damage to an individual or business? reputation. There are two types of defamation: libel and slander. The key distinction between these two is libel is a permanently written statement whereas slander is verbal and transient. Libel can also include online defamatory comments like emails or on websites or on social media platforms including Instagram and Twitter. While social media can play a significant role in keeping us connected, we as?London defamation solicitors?recognise the harmful impact that comments made online can have on individuals. A person?s reputation is incredibly important; they determine future opportunities and relationships. As a result, any damage done to one?s individual reputation can have disastrous consequences. Similarly, the impact of posting damaged and harmful content online is disastrous for businesses. This is so; because social media plays an ever-increasing strategic role in business and digital marketing.

How to Respond

When a client?s reputation is jeopardised, Taylor Hampton?s team acts quickly to intervene. To bring a successful claim in defamation, it must be shown that the statement: 1) was made to somebody other than the claimant; 2) has caused or would be likely to cause serious harm to the claimant?s reputation ((Defamation Act 2013, s. 1(1)). Harm to the reputation of a body that trades for profit is not ?serious harm? unless it has caused or is likely to cause the body serious financial loss (Defamation Act 2013, s. 1(2))); 3) may expose the claimant to contempt, dislike, hatred or ridicule. 4) may cause the claimant to be shunned by society or avoided by people; and 5) was clearly applicable to the claimant, although they do not necessarily have to be named.

However, a defamatory statement may be defended by the following defences:

  • Truth
  • Honest opinion;
  • Publication on a matter of public interest;
  • Privilege (qualified or absolute)
As leading solicitors in this area with years of expertise, we can help guide you through any defamation claim, whether you are bringing or defending one. If you believe that you have a claim in defamation, please do get in touch with our London defamation solicitors who will be more than happy to assist. In today?s digital age, it can take years of hard work and dedication to build a strong reputation. However, with the rise of online publications and social media, a person?s reputation can be shattered in mere seconds. This situation is worsened by the speed and permanence of online content, which can spread like wildfire across various traditional and digital media outlets. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have immense power and reach, allowing malicious or poorly considered comments to wreak havoc on an individual?s reputation with a single click. Unfortunately, such content can often remain online indefinitely, leading to long-term damage to a person?s reputation. Even search engines like Google can compound the issue by prominently displaying defamatory content when an individual?s name is searched, and blogs hosted on the platform can also be used to spread false or defamatory information.

How our team can help you

At Taylor Hampton Solicitors, we understand the significant impact of online publications and social media on an individual?s reputation. As experts in defamation, privacy, media, internet law, and immigration, we offer unparalleled services to safeguard your reputation and interests in the digital world. Our extensive experience and track record of success help us to receive multiple awards. We regularly advise high-profile organizations on copyright and media-related matters. We help you to navigate the complex world of online publications and social media, by keeping your reputation remains intact. Whether you are an individual, a business, or an organization, our expertise and resources protect your interests for your success in the digital age. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.??0207427 5970?or email at?enquiries@taylorhampton.co.uk