Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in North Carolina

On these facts, you could have a defamation ("slander") case against the bartender. This statement might constitute "defamation per se," because it alleges that you used drugs, and your claim is stronger for this reason. It would be helpful if you had a copy of the written contract, but the bartender's statements about you still presumably resulted in some economic losses to you. If the bartender had a basis for his statement, then it could be protected by a "privilege," which the law gives to people in some situations (and often in the employment situation). You may want to consult further with a lawyer with more details of your case and for further guidance.