WV Defamation, Libel & Slander Attorney
Reputation Injured Due to False Claims? Call Now!
The Law Firm You Can Trust
Was a false statement of character made against you that was consumed by one or more individuals? If you believe that you may have a case for libel (written/published defamation) or slander (verbal/broadcasted defamation) under West Virginia law, contact Angotti & Straface Attorneys at Law L.C. immediately, as the statute of limitations to file a claim is rather short. Defamation can include any statement that attacks the good name or reputation of another person; however, it is important to remember that if the statement is true, no claim of defamation can be made.
What Is Slander and Libel?
Slander: an unrecorded, false oral statement delivered to an audience of at least one other person
Libel: a published false statement distributed to an audience including at least one recipient
Online Character Assassination & Social Vilification
Character assassination based on false claims is, unfortunately, becoming increasingly common throughout West Virginia. With the increasing ease of online publishing and social media platforms (including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube), unlawful and unwarranted vilification has created an epidemic. This harm has been witnessed in Morgantown, Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Wheeling, and areas throughout the entire state.
Inherent Injury and Harmful Effects of Defamation
By unfairly lowering the esteem of the defamation victim, it can become difficult or impossible for the affected individual to obtain employment, housing, essential social supports, and other necessities of life. A valid defamation claim must not merely be false and potentially harmful – it must have caused actual injury to the subject’s reputation; however, many types of defamatory statements are considered defamatory per se (injurious by their very nature). If you believe you may have a valid defamation case, contact Angotti & Straface.
Inherently harmful statements include those that allege the subject:
- is a criminal
- is infected with a contagious disease
- has engaged in an act constituting moral turpitude (a behavior that violates the accepted standards and/or sentiments of society)
- is inept at his or her trade or profession
- is unfit for his or her duties
Call the Proven Defamation Attorneys in Morgantown
Since 1952, the proven defamation attorneys at Angotti & Straface have tried numerous personal injury lawsuits to verdict throughout West Virginia. Our firm does not tolerate defamatory communications against our clients. We aggressively protect the rights of our clients in Morgantown and beyond. If you have suffered harm as a result of a slanderous utterance or libelous publication, let us help you secure the maximum financial compensation allowed by law for your injuries. To schedule your free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury claim, contact Angotti & Straface at: (304) 292-4381.