New Jersey Lawyer Defending Against Online Libel and Defamation Charges
Although businesses have always tried to maintain a positive reputation in the community, the explosion of the Internet has changed how this is done. The Internet has also made it very easy to ruin a company's reputation. A bad review, negative comments on social media or a copycat website can take business away, limit profits and destroy goodwill. They can constitute defamation or libel.
There is a patchwork of U.S. laws governing the Internet. Moreover, an online attack can come from outside the country, complicating the legal situation. If you have been charged with defaming or libeling a competitor online, it is important to have an attorney who can determine the legal issues and identify the applicable law.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
At his Toms River, New Jersey, law firm, attorney David T. Schlendorf defends clients facing charges of Internet defamation. A criminal lawyer since 1997, attorney Schlendorf is one of only 2 percent of New Jersey attorneys to be named a certified criminal trial attorney by the state Supreme Court. He has a substantial computer crime defense practice, giving him an in-depth understanding of the legal issues surrounding use of the Internet.
In these types of cases, the prosecution must prove that the libel was published to someone other than the person or organization defamed — for example, a private e-mail to the alleged victim might not meet that standard. To be libelous, the statement must be false and damaging to the plaintiff. Proving online libel can be tricky; an experienced defense attorney can often identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
A possible defense strategy is proving that the statement was actually true. Another might be proving that the alleged victim — individual or business — was not actually harmed. Each case is different; Mr. Schlendorf will explore the evidence and develop a strong strategy that fits the facts of the case.
If you have been charged with damaging another's reputation online, contact The Law Office of David T. Schlendorf to speak with an experienced computer crimes defense lawyer. Learn about your options and your rights in matters involving defamation and slander..
