Legal Question in Legal Ethics in California
I received a written document from a lawyer in which he stated that I am a liar and a thief. Do I have grounds for a libel suit?
Asked on 2/29/12, 7:45 am
2 Answers from Attorneys
Anthony Roach
Law Office of Anthony A. Roach
No, not based on the facts you have provided. Defamation requires communication of the defamatory material to a third party, that destroys your reputation. All that has happened so far is that you have been insulted.
Answered on 2/29/12, 7:51 am
If it is in the context of litigation, it is absolutely privileged, meaning even if it was communicated to a third party and destroyed your reputation, you still couldn't sue.
Answered on 2/29/12, 10:13 am