When intentionally false defamatory statements are made about a person or a business, it can qualify as defamation. Intent is important. These aren’t simple mistakes. Someone is knowingly spreading untrue and defamatory information, which can cause significant harm to the other party.
For example, a former employer could be making these statements to limit a person’s ability to find a job in their industry. This could derail their career and cause them serious financial harm. The exact financial harm depends on their expected wages and how much they’re missing out on when no one else will hire them.
There are two different ways that defamation generally takes place, known as slander and libel. What is the difference between them?
Spoken statements
If someone knowingly speaks an incorrect defamatory statement, then it counts as slander. Naturally, this is one of the oldest types of defamation. It tends to have a relatively small audience.
Written statements
When such a statement is written or published, then it is known as libel. This can be very harmful because it can reach a much greater audience.
In fact, the rise of social media has taken defamation to new heights. Social media can connect to millions and even billions of potential users. When a slanderous statement goes viral and reaches a huge audience, the harm that it causes to the other party is extensive.
Additionally, even if the statements are later retracted or proven false, the damage may already be done. The initial statement went viral, but much of that audience is never going to see the retraction. They don’t even know that it was defamation at all.
Your legal options
If you’re facing defamation of any kind from a previous employer, it’s important to take it very seriously. You need to know about all of your legal options. Having experienced guidance can help you protect your rights and your reputation.