Legal Question in Military Law in Maine

Slander

Is it possible to have someone in the military charged with slander? A woman at my command is accusing myself and a few of my shipmates of making a list that ranked the women. This is untrue. It may just be a consuling chit, but I have an exemplary record in the Navy and don't want everyone to think of this situation when they think of me. Everyone tells me that I should just sign the chit, and in six months it will be gone. NO! I didn't do what I am being accused of, and can't believe that signing is my only option.


Asked on 2/13/07, 2:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Anthony DeWitt Bartimus, Frickleton Robertson & Gorny, PC

Re: Slander

If I understand you right, you're being asked to sign a statement that you've been counseled. I would sign the statement and in big bold print above my name state "I did not do what I was accused of doing." If, indeed, it is a counseling matter, it's over, and your reputation is intact.

In terms of suing for Slander, you have the legal right to sue if you've been harmed, but slander lawsuits are more difficult to prevail on than just about any other lawsuit. You can see an attorney in your state and ask, but my guess is that you'd be better off denying the conduct and accepting the counseling so long as there is no punitive judicial or nonjudicial punishment associated with it.

Good luck

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Answered on 2/13/07, 4:46 pm


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