How can I sue someone for defamation of character?

Answer by  patti (29325)

You must be able to prove how you were harmed, and the harm has to be measurable in terms of dollars: you lost your job, you couldn't get work, your reputations suffered. The party you sue must have extensive assets and you must be able to afford counsel. You cannot sue just because someone upset you.

Answer by  Dean (4035)

You must show loss of wages or employment, inability to get work, loss of friends/relationships, loss of status in the community, etc. The loss must be measurable and real. It is difficult to prove and very expensive. The person you want to sue must have assets worth going after. You cannot sue simply because you are pissed off.

Answer by  bhudson (54)

You must be certain that the person you allege defamed you made false statements to another party with intent to defame or harm you. Secondly, the defamation you claim must have harmed you or your reputation. Defamation is difficult to prove, but if you believe you have a case, you need to file a complaint with your state's court.

Answer by  patti (29325)

You must be able to prove that the actions damaged you in some way: you lost work, wages, credibility, and/or suffered public ridicule. You will dispute the allegations, while the defendant brings witness to prove the allegations. There is no point is suing unless the defamer has deep pockets. Hurt feelings or generally being annoyed does not constitute "defamation."

Answer by  Amom (701)

You can sue someone for defamation of character but you need to have irrefutable proof that they defamed you and that it has damaged you in some way. You'll need a witness or written documentation as proof. You can take them to small claims court.

Answer by  xsut (943)

To sue someone for defamation of character you have to prove that the individual you are suing substantially affected your character in a malicious manner.

Answer by  Olive10 (11)

You have to show that the statement the person(s) made was a false statement of fact. this statement was conveyed to a third party and the statement is understood to be about you and tending to harm your reputation. You'll need to gather information. Consult an attorny, and then file a complaint with the court.

Answer by  vkcopper (358)

File a civil court action stating that a third party has made false statements about you and they are causing that person to suffer harm.