Freedom of Speech question?

Question

I have a former professor that sandbagged me last semester over a grade. If I run into him, what could I say to him without getting in legal trouble?

In terms of talking trash to him or cutting him down.

Answer 1

As it turns out, you're Freedom of Speech is not absolute, and there are some things you actually aren't allowed to say.

Two of those exceptions that apply here are fighting words and profanity (as deemed by your community).

You can't threaten him or his family with bodily harm or property destruction, etc. Those can actually be contrused as assault if you have the means, ability, and opportunity.

You can't try to get him to hit you. "Yeah, punch me, you @#&*!!" etc won't fly. Those are fighting words. Anything you say to provoke a fight is not protected by the Constitution.

And if you call him a string of nasty, dirty words, if SOCIETY around you has deemed it inappropriate, than it is. That's a tough one. The things said in say, LA, that are acceptable may not be acceptable in Salt Lake City. So make sure you understand the standards where you live.

And, of course, you can't slander him. You can't tell people things about him that are untrue and could potentially damage his credibility as a teacher. So, telling people he tried to sleep with you, and when you said no he failed you ... that's slander and you'll end up in a world of hurt for it.

You could say something like, "Hey, you're a horrible teacher, and you screwed me over. You suck."

But your best option is to move on. Some day you'll be in charge of other people, maybe not as a teacher, but as some type of leader. Remember how this guy made you feel, and work very hard to never make someone else feel that way when the situation is reversed.

This was a good question.

Answer 2

Well besides me telling you that would be childish... for any seriousness of your question.. don't threaten him, don't approach him in a threatening manner- if you just talk to him and call him an idiot or something.. then nothing will happen to you.. but if he feels threatened in anyway.. you could get into trouble

Answer 3

You can say anything you want as long as it is not threatening and is true or is your opinion. Dont listen to everything the ranger says most of that is just not true.

Answer 4

If you're still in school, be courteous. Remember, that he may have friends teaching other classes, that you attend. If you've graduated, forget it, its over with.