If someone posts derogatory statements on facebook about me and I have proof of it, do I have any way of filing a lawsuit against them?

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If someone posts derogatory statements on facebook about me and I have proof of it, do I have any way of filing a lawsuit against them?

I am in pharmacy school and am concerned that this may affect my future career options if seen by an employer.

Asked on February 18, 2012 under Personal Injury, Mississippi

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

You can sue the person who made the false statement for defamation.  Defamation is a false statement made with knowledge of its falsity communicated to a third party who recognizes the defamatory content and the statement is injurious to your reputation.

Libel is written defamation.  Slander is spoken defamation.

Each repetition of the defamatory statement is actionable in a lawsuit for defamation.  Your damages (the amount of compensation you are seeking in your lawsuit) would include mental distress, the loss of friends and associates and if applicable physical illness and medical expense.  You will need to file your lawsuit prior to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations or you will lose your rights forever in the matter.

It would also be advisable to ask Facebook to remove the posting.


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