Legal Question in Employment Law in Washington
Slander in the work place
A relative of mine is in an upper management position with a University. She has recently been sent several emails (from a co-worker, who shortly after, became her boss) that were CC'd to multiple others attacking her trustworthiness and productivity. These accusations are false according to all available data. She feels threatened and embarrassed. She forwarded the emails to someone in a position to properly react, but no action was taken. I have advised her to use all the proper channels within the University. Should those be unfruitful, does a slander/defamation or possibly harassment suit exist? What other options may be available?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Slander in the work place
If I were she, I'd file a formal complaint with the University through proper channels (such as HR) and attach the email(s) as exhibit(s).
One can always sue. The question is, can one win? Your sister needs to have been damaged in some way. For example, if she lost out on a promotion, that would be being damaged.
Re: Slander in the work place
Yes, before considering lawsuits, all attempts to resolve informally should be exhausted. IF she can prove knowingly false statements were willfully made, to her actual damage, then she has grounds. To justify filing and spending all the time and money to do so, she needs to verify the defendant(s) have assets to collect against, or that the suit will result in a correction of the problem worth her investment - such as public apology, etc. Feel free to contact me if serious about pursuing this. Counsel may be able to work out some settlement without need of filing suit.
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