Can you sue for defamation of character/libel/slander for statements made on the Internet?

Question

In this situation, the person sent emails to my sister's employers but didn't identify themselves by name and this person also posted the information on a town online forum. Also, the claims this person made were true but could still damage my sister's reputation. It happened a long time ago, but it still happened (an arrest for being an accessory to a crime). My sister is more embarrassed than anything, and I told her that I don't think she can sue, but could maybe send cease and desist letter. Anyone know?

Answer 1

You can't sue for anything if it is true. It would be a frivolous case.

Suing for gossip on an online forum is not a great use of time and money. It would be like suing over a Craigslist personal ad. Just flag it and move on. Maybe your sister should address her past with her coworkers and explain her side because I guarantee gossip will start and this is a good way to nip it in the bud. If it's true, then she just has to own up to it and prove she's changed.

Answer 2

yes, in theory, it depends on what was said.

And it is very easy to send cease and desist letters, or to just inform the post office not to deliver mail from a given sender.

Answer 3

if it's true there is no defamation or slander

Answer 4

That's right, if it's true, it's not defamation. Tell sis to get her life in order so no one has anything on her to dis her about.

Answer 5

If it's true it doesn't classify as defamation of character...but she could sue for harrasment...that embarrasment she will have to live with going into her job everyday...

Answer 6

God ...I hope not