Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Texas
I purchased cattle from a guy and I wasn't happy with the transaction. The guy sold me a bull that wasn't registered as he stated it was. He has refused to handle the matter to my satisfaction, therefore I posted this statement on craigslist so other people would be aware of what I had gone through.
Posted to farm & garden on dallas -- south DFW craigslist
"I purchased cattle from the person that has cattle for sale in Cranfills Gap, Burleson, Rendon, Lillian, and North Texas. I would not recommend buying from these guys, he has postings under two phone numbers. "
"Name of Cattle Company"
Persons name xxx-xxx-xxxx/2nd persons name xxx-xxx-xxxx. "
He is now threatening to sue me for deformation and slander. Does he have a case? My understanding of deformation was the statement had to be false, is that correct? This is taking place in Texas if that matters at all.
1 Answer from Attorneys
You are correct that an accurate and true statement cannot be the basis of a claim for defamation or libel and slander. The problem always arises as to what IS the truth. I am not saying he cannot sue you; I am saying that if he does, truth is a defense to the suit. Nothing can stop him from suing you.