Can I sue for slander or defamation of character?
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Can I sue for slander or defamation of character?
I was recently terminated from my job. They never gave me a reason but told me I needed to speak to a detective. The detective told me I was being investigated for theft. I never stole anything or allowed others to steal things. If and when I am not charged with a crime, can I sue the company for slander and defamation of character? The reason I ask is because other companies within the industry that I used to work in have heard things which is making it difficult for me to find work.
Asked on June 6, 2016 under Personal Injury, Utah
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
You can sue the company for defamation. Defamation is a false statement communicated to a third party who recognizes the defamatory content and the statement is injurious to your reputation.
Slander is spoken defamation.
Every repetition of the defamatory statement is actionable in a lawsuit for defamation.
Your damages (monetary compensation you are seeking in your lawsuit) would include lost income from losing your job, emotional distress, loss of friends or associates, and if applicable, physical illness.
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