First Amendment – Dedicated and Tenacious Representation for Those Subject to Defamation, Libel, and Slander
When our clients are defamed, slandered, or libeled, our role is to seek full compensation based upon the damages and loss of reputation that have been suffered.
We provide counsel to clients who have been defamed by any written publication, radio station, television channel, or on the Internet, or have had inappropriate or nude pictures posted on the Internet without permission.
We know that defamatory accusations can ruin your business, affect your ability to get a job, or destroy your character and reputation. The firm is experienced in recovering damages and helping to restore your reputation and livelihood.
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Client Review
“Really positive experience with Matt professionalism. Working on a Civil Rights issue that happened to me, I got a great advice that led me to the results I was searching for. I definitely recommend him.”
Google Review 5 Stars – R.A.
Settlements & Verdicts
A judge who had been defamed by a local radio station.
An African-American man defamed by a local TV channel.
Your Reputation is Priceless
What is Slander?
Slander constitutes making false spoken defamatory remarks about a person. Such speaking can take place either in person, or through other media (such as TV).
What is Libel?
Libel constitutes making false, defamatory remarks about a person in writing. Writing can include many different types of venues, including newspapers, billboards, or the Internet.
What is Defamation?
Defamation is taking an action that damages the reputation of another, usually through slander or libel.
What Damages are Available for Defamation?
The damages available for defamation are determined by comparing the reputation of a person before the alleged defamation and after the defamation. So, as a starting point, a person who is defamed should have a favorable reputation prior to the defamation.
Commercial Damages
In some cases, such as with an athlete or celebrity who endorses products and whose earning potential is dependent upon having a stellar reputation, the defamed person would be entitled to damages equal to their loss in earning capacity. To prove such a case, experts would need to be retained who could offer professional opinions to a jury regarding the amount of such damages.
Reputational Damages
We are all only as good as our reputations. Even if a person does not earn a living by endorsing products and is still employed at their same job, they nonetheless are entitled to damages if they are defamed.
In calculating damages, a jury would examine items such as:
- What was the person’s reputation before the alleged defamation took place?
- What was the person’s reputation after the alleged defamation took place?
- How widespread was the defamation? There will be a difference if it occurred on the evening news or on the front page of the newspaper than a comment by someone to a couple of acquaintances.
- How has the person’s life been altered by the defamation? In order to receive substantial compensation, substantial damages must be proven.
If You’ve Been Defamed, Help Restore Your Reputation
Call Us, and Learn How We Can Help
Because we accept many cases on a contingency fee basis, there are no fees for us unless you recover. We offer a free telephone consultation so that you learn about your rights.
