How does one deal with slander?

Question

This question is by the average Joe who can't afford that sort of legal representation

Answer 1

Hi Bronze,

This an area of law we call a tort. As a result it is almost impossible to bring this type of action using public funding.

The other issue here is that slander is very difficult to prove in court because it is about the spoken word. There are also rules as to what is considered as a slander.

You could choose to fight this case yourself, but without formal legal training you will find it difficult.

The main remedy for this type of tort is a public retraction and apology. Unless substantial loss or damage can be shown you are unlikely to receive any considerable financial recompense.

Just treat the matter with the contempt it deserves and get on with your life.

Good luck.

Answer 2

The first thing you have to do prove that slander took place and, as slander by definition is spoken (libel is written) then you have to find reliable witness' who are willing to testify is court...not always easy.

The second thing you have to prove is that the slander harmed you is some way...financially or emotionally.

If you are is business and the person said something about your produce or service that might harm your business then this would be grounds for action.

Likewise they may have said something about you thus harming you personally.....and if you were an internation film star, for example, then this also migth be grounds for action.

However, and by your own admision, you are 'an average Joe' and therefore you have less to lose than a film star and so, even were you to win any court action the damages awarded might be very small.

Whether you can afford a lawyer or not the best thing to do is forget it.

Answer 3

Slander is a spoken defamation. Defamation or "defamation of character," is spoken or written words that falsely and negatively reflect on a living person's reputation.

If you truely have a case for slander you need to contact a personal injury attorney and file a civil suit. Most attorneys in the US for these issues will not charge you a fee if they don't win your case.
And it does not cost you a penny for a consultation. Be sure you give your attorney every last detail.
And don't worry, if you do not have a case they will not take it on.
emember, if you file against some one htey have the right to dig up anything on you they can, so you'd better be almost squeeky clean. If not you'll just have to suck it up.

Answer 4

I think that you will simply have to ride above it, as defamation cases are notoriously tricky and expensive. Had you given more details, then it might be easier to suggest a few practical ways of dealing with the situation. Sometimes what people regard as slander is what the law would term vulgar abuse. Most of us have had to put up with a certain amount of that in our time and it is often best to ignore it.

Answer 5

Slander is a very long case. You need loads of money to fight it too. If I was you to get you started do as what I did and ask your solicitor to send you a letter to the person who is causing the slander.

Answer 6

Taking someone to court for slander is very expensive and very risky. If you can prove that what was said caused distress through being offensive or threatening, then going to the Police is a better option. (UK).

Answer 7

I was slandered once by a bounder in the village , i had my butler give him a dam good thrashing..
hope this is of help Lord Wilson Wigbottom......

Answer 8

you cannot be an average Joe and a big f-ucking baby!!!!!since you are whining online you must be a baby!!!!go cry to your mommy!!!!

Answer 9

You can ignore it or file a lawsuit.

Answer 10

don't do it if you can't afford it