Successful defamation claim settlement
Our Litigation Team, led by Peter Hastings and supported by Tom Barnston and Abby Kerswill, recently secured a favourable settlement in a defamation claim brought on behalf of our client whose reputation had been seriously damaged by false and harmful statements published online via Facebook, Trip Advisor and Google.
The claim centred on several serious defamatory statements made by the defendant, including:
- False allegations – Statements presented as fact that were entirely untrue and damaging to our client’s personal and professional standing.
- Publication on social media – The comments were shared widely online, significantly increasing the harm caused.
- Serious harm – Evidence showed that the statements had a measurable negative impact on our client’s profits and reputation, satisfying the statutory threshold under the Defamation Act 2013.
- Refusal to retract – Prior to legal action, the defendant declined to remove or apologise for the statements, making litigation unavoidable.
Following the mediation, the matter was resolved on terms that fully favoured our client. The settlement included:
- Formal apology – The defendant issued a written apology acknowledging the falsity of the statements and the distress casued.
- Retraction – All defamatory posts were removed and a clear retraction was published to correct the record.
- Damages – Our client received financial compensation for the harm suffered, including reputational damages and emotional distress.
- Legal costs – The defendant agreed to pay our client’s reasonable legal costs.
Conclusion
Defamation can have immediate and lasting consequences. False statements spread quickly, especially on social media platforms, and without decisive action, the damage can be difficult to undo. This case highlights the importance of early legal intervention and effectiveness of alternative dispute resolution.
How we can help
Our specialist Litigation Team regularly advises individuals and business on defamation, libel and reputation management.
For further information on how we can support you or your business in managing defamatory statements, please contact Peter Hastings at ph@rogers-norton.co.uk or call 01603 675639