Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Iowa

Internet message board libel suit?

I need a legal opinion on whether the following state-ments would most likely be considered libelous in a court of law.They were posted on an Internet message board.''Rumor has it that some of the jobs eliminated from the office HQ is not because they were high paying jobs that were going to slack off after[Blank Co.#1]closed, but because the Natlsls Mgr didn't like them personally.''''I just question why [Blank Co.#2] would pay an assistant so the NSM can read sheep magazines and give away[unmentioned items]during busi-ness hours.''''I just think the stockholders should view this tidbit of management when they wonder why their stock can't get over 3.''''Let[blank person]tell everyone within shouting distance that[blank Co.#3]was screwed up when he bought it.It's still his fault Didn't he look at the company's big picture before he signed the purchase agreement with the blood of every worker at[Blank Co.#2].''''...Con(they call him Con for a reason) deeply looked into [Blank Co.#3]first.''''The rest of the board members need to sack up and face the bully.Just like a bully, he raises his voice in lieu of re-enforcing his argument.''''[Blank Co.#2]is in a lot worse shape than they let on.''


Asked on 3/28/01, 3:16 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

James Swiderski Law Offices of James Swiderski

Re: Internet message board libel suit?

They don't appear to be too offensive, but its hard to say for sure unless I had more background information. I'd be careful. Companies are becoming increasingly belligerent about filing suit against person's posting online criticism. There are remedies for such lawsuits. California's Anti-Slapp statute is one of them. Check out the "News" section of my web site for more information. www.WhatIsTheLaw.com.

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Answered on 5/31/01, 7:27 pm


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