Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York
Defamation of Character
I recently went to a vet because my dog was very sick. They immediately told me I couldn't write a check because another customer whom lived with me over 6 months ago threatened them. I decided to go to another vet and had the paperwork on my dog sent over to the new vet. The old vet immediately told the new vet not to accept any checks from me because -I- have written them a bad check before.
Considering this is not true and I personally have NEVER used the original vet before, would this be considered Defemation of Character and if so, what should I do about it?
Update: I have attempted to get the paperwork myself and the first vet has typed within it 'Do not accept check. NSF History''. Also, there WAS publication to a third-party, the second vet was told this information over the phone. I am pretty sure the second vet is considered a third-party. Also, there is damages, since I am not able to give these test results to another vet, I am going to have to redo these tests and they cost $300+ (first vet charged me $342 and prices vary). Also, the longer it takes me to see a vet, the sicker my dog gets and she has UTI which can become uncurable, possibly fatal, if not caught quickly.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Defamation of Character
There are public policy reasons why you do not have a case. Think of the effect that it would have on businessmen if they could not protect themself against someone who they believe would pass bad checks.In this case you lived with someone who passed bad checks. I think that the vet has a good faith belief that you would pass bad checks as well and he wouldn't be paid. Give him a break and go to another vet.