Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York
My question is regarding a civil lawsuit. If someone makes disparaging remarks about a co-worker, can that be considered slander? If these remarks are strictly opinion, and prefaced as such, can an individual be sued and pay a civil fine to the complainant?
Asked on 4/05/10, 5:47 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Kristen Browde
Browde Law, P.C.
1) It depends upon the specific words used.
2) While opinion is generally protected, some statements are not seen as opinion but as disguised statements of supposed fact, and thus can be actionable.
3) There is no "civil fine" for defamation. However, if you are sued and lose, the damages can be substantial.
Answered on 4/10/10, 5:59 pm