Premier Defamation Attorneys

What Qualifies as Defamation?

Not every hurtful or offensive comment is legally actionable. To qualify as defamation, a statement must meet a specific legal criterion to balance free speech with protecting personal and professional reputations. Whether the harm occurs in a tweet, online review, news article, or vicious rumor, a valid defamation claim generally requires:

• It is a false statement of fact, not a subjective opinion
• The statement was communicated to a third party (published or spoken to someone else)
• It was made with fault, either negligence or, for public figures, “actual malice”
• The statement caused harm. This can include reputational injury, lost income, emotional distress, or career damage.

What’s the Difference Between Slander & Libel?

Libel refers to defamatory statements written or published, such as in emails, blog posts, social media content, or newspaper articles. Slander, by contrast, involves spoken falsehoods—often arising in workplace gossip, heated arguments, or public events.

Both forms are legally actionable, but libel can be more damaging due to its lasting visibility and shareability. Public figures must additionally show that the defamatory statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.

Defamation of Character Cases Our Attorneys Handle

Podhurst Orseck handles high-stakes defamation matters involving reputational attacks, false accusations, and harmful content. With decades of experience litigating complex cases, we fight to hold individuals and powerful institutions accountable for the damage they inflict.

Online Defamation & Internet Libel

False and damaging content posted on platforms like Google, Yelp, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, or industry-specific forums can destroy reputations in moments. We act swiftly to remove defamatory content, demand corrections, and file lawsuits when necessary, protecting individuals and businesses from ongoing online harm.

False Allegations of Criminal Conduct

Being falsely accused of a crime, especially in public or professional contexts, can have devastating personal, legal, and career consequences. Our team aggressively investigates and pursues defamation claims involving false arrest implications, fabricated misconduct, and defamatory police or court records.

Workplace & Employment Defamation

Defamatory workplace gossip, false HR complaints, or statements following termination can ruin careers. We represent executives, professionals, and employees in cases involving post-employment retaliation, blacklisting, or false allegations of misconduct made to colleagues, clients, or licensing boards.

Media & High-Profile Defamation

We represent clients in libel cases involving print and digital media outlets, podcasts, influencers, and televised reports. Our attorneys understand the balance between free speech and factual accountability, and we work to correct the public record and seek redress when reputational lines are crossed.

Business Defamation & Trade Libel

When false claims target your company, services, or leadership, the reputational damage can quickly translate into financial losses. We handle trade libel, malicious competitive tactics, and defamatory reviews or media content to undermine business standing and seek injunctive relief and compensation to protect your brand.

Defamation of Professionals & Licensed Individuals

Doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other licensed professionals face unique reputational risks. We handle cases involving false peer reviews, Board complaints, online accusations, and workplace statements that threaten licensure or practice rights.

Defamation Involving Public Figures or Influencers

False statements can trigger widespread public backlash and brand damage for clients in the public eye, whether politicians, executives, athletes, or influencers. Our firm litigates high-visibility defamation claims while managing privacy, press, and strategic communications.

Do You Have a Defamation Case?

While not every hurtful statement qualifies as defamation, if a false statement was presented as fact, communicated to others, and caused real harm, you may have a strong legal claim. You may have a defamation case if:

• You were falsely accused of criminal, unethical, or immoral behavior
• A false statement was made publicly or shared with third parties
• The statement was not just opinion, satire, or protected speech
• You suffered reputational damage, job loss, financial harm, or emotional distress

Our attorneys will review the facts, determine whether the legal elements of defamation are met, and explain your rights. If you have a valid defamation case, we’ll guide you through filing a lawsuit or negotiating a retraction.

How To Legally Prove Defamation

To prove defamation, you must show that a false statement of fact was made about you, shared with at least one third party, and caused actual harm to your reputation or livelihood. You also need to establish fault—either negligence or, for public figures, actual malice.

Evidence in a defamation case can include written communications, social media posts, witness testimony, and reputational or financial damage documentation. An experienced defamation attorney can help gather this evidence and build a strong, legally sound claim.

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Damages You Can Recover in a Defamation Lawsuit

If false statements have harmed your reputation or career, you may be entitled to substantial financial compensation and legal relief. In a defamation claim, you may be able to recover:

• Compensatory Damages – For lost income, lost clients, demotions, or terminated employment caused by reputational harm.
• General Damages – For mental anguish, emotional distress, and damage to your personal or professional reputation.
• Punitive Damages – In cases involving malicious or reckless defamation, courts may award additional damages to punish the wrongdoer.
• Equitable Relief – Including public retractions, corrections, or takedown orders to restore your name.
• Injunctive Relief – Court orders to prevent further defamatory statements or require removal of harmful content.

At Podhurst Orseck, we build strategic, evidence-backed defamation claims that reflect the full scope of your reputational harm. Working with financial and forensic experts, we present compelling cases designed to secure maximum compensation and real relief