Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida

friend fired

Hello. A friend of mine just got fired from her job, on accusations that she was stealing lottery tickets and money out of the register. The store owner has video footage of the entire day with proof of this on tape. He is now telling her other job this information, and customers of his. Can she legally sue him for slandering her name to customers and her other job?


Asked on 1/01/09, 9:17 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Hunter Chamberlin Chamberlin Butler & Crowe, P.A.

Re: friend fired

Unfortunately, truth is an absolute defense to defamation claims. Thus, if what he says is true, he cannot be sued for defamation.

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Answered on 1/02/09, 8:59 am
Danialle Riggins Riggins Law Firm, PA

Re: friend fired

It depends. If your friend actually stole the money, the truth is an absolute defense to a defamation claim. If she did not steal the items then, she may have a valid claim. However, it depends on what and who the employer is telling. Employers have a limited immunity in regards to disclosing references for former employees. So if there is a good faith belief that your friend was stealing, then the employer could be justified in disclosing his concerns and reasons for termination. Also your friend will need to show how it has harm her. Has she not been employed due to the statements or lost a job?

There are several issues and questions that need to be addressed.

Have your friend contact my or any other employment attorney's office to discuss this matter.

Good luck and happy new year.

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Answered on 1/02/09, 9:33 am


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