Defamation and Media
Based in our Nottingham offices, our solicitors specialise in advising and representing clients on complex defamation and media-related disputes. Our expertise extends beyond traditional print, radio, and TV, to include defamation arising from social media posts and online publications and blogs.
We have one of the most successful and busy defamation and media litigation practices in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, and across the East Midlands. Bringing or defending a defamation claim is extremely stressful, especially in the digital age where defamatory comments can remain online indefinitely. Our specialist Defamation and Media Solicitors have the knowledge, tenacity, and sheer talent required to fight defamation claims. One of our biggest strengths as a Civil Litigation team is the ability to take the worry and stress of the matter off your shoulders so you can get on with your life.
We are a diverse, multi-lingual law firm that uses best-in-class technology to provide clients with streamlined, modern, and highly effective civil litigation advice and representation. Our solicitors have many years of experience, meaning we have a robust reputation for excellence with the UK’s best Barristers and King’s Counsel, industry experts, and PR specialists who will, when needed, bring additional support to our Civil Litigation Department. Our clients also benefit from our ability to instruct the country’s most respected expert witnesses.
Common Questions About Defamation and Media-Related Disputes
What makes a statement defamatory?
A statement is defamatory if it is untrue and damages the reputation of a person, group of people, or an organisation. There are two types of defamatory statements – libel and slander. The former appears in writing, while the latter is spoken. Defamatory statements broadcast on radio or television or said during a public performance of a play are classified as libel under the Broadcasting Act 1990 and Theatres Act 1968.
Under the Defamation Act 2013, for a statement to be defamatory, its publication must cause or be likely to cause serious harm to the reputation of the claimant. The courts have set the bar for ‘serious harm’ relatively high, making it essential to instruct an experienced defamation solicitor to advise and represent you, ensuring the best chance of winning your claim.
What remedies can the court grant if a statement is held to be defamatory?
The remedies available for defamation include damages, an injunction, the publication of a summary of the court’s judgment, and an order to remove the defamatory statement. The court cannot order the maker of the defamatory statement to correct the statement or declare it to be untrue, nor can the court make such a declaration itself.
Our Defamation and Media Solicitors will advise you on the best remedy available for your particular case. We will work tirelessly to get the result you want and keep you regularly updated on the status of your matter.
What are the defences available for defamation?
The following defences are available in defamation cases:
- You were telling the truth.
- The statement was one of honest opinion rather than fact.
- Publication of the statement was in the public interest.
- The maker of the statement benefited from absolute or qualified privilege.
- The statement was peer-reviewed in a scientific or academic journal (provided certain conditions were met).
If you have been accused of making a defamatory statement, our solicitors have the expertise and experience to build a robust defence in your favour.
Why Choose Us?
People choose and recommend us not just in Nottingham, Arnold, Hucknall, and Derby but across Nottinghamshire, the East Midlands, and the whole of the UK because we get results and, in most cases, settle disputes outside of court. Our solicitors will take care of your case, ensuring you understand the options available and get the advice you need to protect your best interests.
Defamation and media disputes are stressful for everyone involved. Our Defamation and Media Solicitors have the expertise required to rapidly get to the heart of the dispute and advise on a resolution process best suited to your case. As a law firm, we are responsive and proactive, and we ensure our clients are always kept informed about the progress of their matters. You can trust us to use our technology and sheer intelligence to resolve your dispute so you can move forward.
Smalleys Solicitors provides exceptional Defamation and Media and Civil Litigation services to clients. People choose and recommend us not just in Nottingham, Arnold, Hucknall, Derby and Mansfield, but across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire & the East Midlands, and the whole of the UK, because we get results.
To receive expert advice and representation regarding Defamation and Media and Civil Litigation, please contact us using the form below, call us on (0115) 955 6555, email via the Request a Callback form on this contact page.