In an age where anyone and everyone may express their opinion to the world over the internet and social media, never has it been more important for individuals and companies to be aware of defamation law.
Whilst many may believe the ‘right to free speech’ allows them to speak as they please, there are limits to that ‘right’. There are consequences to defaming others, whether that be in news articles, social media posts, or online forums, and those that take such risks may find themselves embroiled in legal proceedings and liable to pay damages.
But how do you know if you have been defamed or if you are defaming others?
Hamilton Locke has prepared and will be publishing throughout the upcoming weeks the following series of articles summarising Australian defamation law:
- What is defamation?
- Who can be defamed?
- How do I know if I have been ‘seriously harmed’?
- When is online content ‘published’?
- What are the defences to defamation?
- How much does it cost to legally claim someone has defamed me, and what remedies may I obtain?
- What is the process for making a defamation claim?
- The defamation checklist – a guide to see if you may have a defamation claim.
If you think you have been defamed, may be defaming others, or have any questions regarding defamation law, please contact Mark Schneider, Eliza Buchanan or Georgina Buckley of our litigation and dispute resolution team.
