#defamationofcharacter

As we've said before, in the U.S. the defamatory statement had to cause you some type of harm in order for you to seek justice, however, in the U.K. the requirements are even more basic.

The statement in question must identify or refer to the claimant, neither of which happened in #AmberHeard's original op-ed- and although the op-ed was written and published in the United States, the Sun reported on it.

Further more, the Sun reported on an op-ed that did not explicity state Johnny Depp's name- HOWEVER, the op-ed was (and still is) of major public interest of millions around the globe.

Not only was the Sun not privy to the knowledge of (potential) defamation prior to commenting on it (making them unaware and in the clear accoridng to Reg. 19 of the 2002 EC Directive in the UK), BUT they also are protected under the UK defense of #reynoldsprivilege.

Lastly, careful research and responible behavior is rather subjective to the eye of the beholder so the decision to dispense the jury in favor of a judge made that subjective decision the monumental deciding factor and decreased Johnny's odds in having someone see his side.

This situation is the perfect example of why hiring an experienced and knowledgable #defamationlawyer is key.

A RM Warner #defamationattorney will make sure to fight for your right to a fair trial, regardless of the state or country you reside in, and will come prepared with the knowledge of that territory's laws so you're protected no matter the region.

UPDATE FROM JURY: Jury asked if the verdict form was referring to #AmberHeard's entire OpEd or just the headline. Amber Heard previously spoke on this, stating, “I spoke up against s3xu@l violence -- and faced our culture's wrath. That has to change."

During the #JohnnyDeppVsAmberHeardTrial, the jury did hear Amber say that she experienced SA by #JohnnyDepp using a bottle...so there's that. 

However, the #johnnydepptrial jury is likely considering whether there's any evidence (and EVIDENCE is the key word we, and the jury, are looking at here) that Amber was SA by #Depp, which the jury will invariably answer in the NEGATIVE.

A majority of internet users experience #cyberharassment at some point in their life, but if you're an #influencer chances are this happens more often than not.

Online harassment, or cyber harassment, is the act of sending threatening or harassing emails, instant messages, social media posts, blog entries, or other online communication aimed at humiliating and tormenting someone.

The law offers you a fighting chance when dealing with online harassment. Justice may be served in numerous scenarios, especially when it pertains to threats of violence or the posting of nonconsensual explicit images of you.

Aside from contacting an RM Warner #cyberbullyinglawyer or #cyberharassmentlawyer, you also have the option to file a #defamationlawsuit if it has caused emotional and psychological harm, damaged your reputation, or affected your earning capacity.

However, it is important to note that there is a difference between harassment and defamation -- and sometimes harassment can be criminal.

#DidYouKnow that each state has it's own unique set of laws specifically to address #defamation?

That's right! What may be acceptable in one state, can be a big no-no in another. That is also why we see such drastically different outcomes with each #defamationlawsuit that becomes publicized.

Just because one case is a slam dunk for #defamation in one place, does not mean it will hold the same weight in another state.

Knowing the laws that are specific to your state is critical, especially when trying to protect (or defend) yourself.

How often do you post a life update on social media without thinking about it? Or read a snarky tweet about a stranger? Although many people forget, social media is a public platform where comments can impact other individuals.

Someone who feels a social media comment or post has damaged their reputation may want to consult with a social media lawyer about their rights. Click the article to read more about how to sue on social media or click the link below to fill out our contact form.