If you believe you have been the subject of libel or slander it can be an extremely difficult and distressing time for you and those closest to you.

Our experienced dispute resolution team understand the severity of such communications and we are dedicated to ensuring we provide friendly and professional advice throughout your case.

What is libel and slander?

• Libel is the publishing of a falsehood about someone else in a letter, report or online.
• Slander is an untrue spoken statement.

Can I make a claim for libel and slander?

If you believe you have been the subject of either libel or slanderous statements then you would need to bring a claim for compensation under the tort of Defamation.

Defamation describes an untrue statement that’s been presented as fact and causes harm to the character of the person to whom it relates.

On 01 January 2014 The Defamation Act 2013 came into force. The reason for the Act was to reform the law relating to defamation by ensuring that a fair balance was struck between the right to freedom of expression and the protection of a person’s reputation.

However, it was not until 12 June 2019 that the UK Supreme Court gave its first authoritative interpretation of The Defamation Act 2013. In order to succeed in bringing a defamation claim in the UK you need to establish the following:-

• The “publication” of a statement;
• That the statement was about you;
• That the statement was defamatory to you; and
• That the defamatory statement met the threshold of “serious harm”

When should I make a claim for defamation?

Obtaining expert legal advice quickly is important because you only have 1 year from the “publication” of the defamatory statement to bring a claim for damages. A solicitor can give you the support and guidance that you will require during this difficult time.

How we can help

At Elliot Mather, our dedicated Dispute Resolution team offer friendly and professional advice with continuity of representation throughout your case.

The level of help you would like from us is entirely up to you. Our team members are all experienced in advising individuals on their specific circumstances

Location 

Our Solicitors are able to provide expert advice across the country with a network of offices based in: Chesterfield, Nottingham, Mansfield and Derby.

How to get in contact 

Our team are on hand to help you and can assist wherever you are based. Please call us for a no-obligation, initial discussion on 0330 333 2613 or email enquiries@elliotmather.co.uk and we will call or email you back.

• Litigation