What is Defamation and What Can I Do If My Reputation is Harmed?
Defamation is the act of falsely or unjustly harming the reputation of another. There are many different ways that defamation can happen, but they all come down to the same result: another person's actions or words tarnished your good name in a significant way. The people who spread the information that hurt you can be held accountable, and you may be able to seek damages for the harm that has been done.
At McIntyre, Panzarella, Thanasides, Hoffman, Bringgold & Todd, P.L., our attorneys represent clients in all types of complex defamation cases. We understand the damage that can be done in these situations, and we know how to quantify that damage in a way that allows us to seek fair compensation on your behalf.
We are prepared to assist you with any type of defamation claim, including the following:
- False arrest
- False accusations of crimes or misconduct by coworkers or others
- Harmful statements made by former employers
- Defamatory statements posted on blogs or social media sites
Committed to Protecting the Rights of Those Falsely Accused
If you are charged with a crime, even if you are found not guilty of the offense or the charge is dropped, a criminal history record will be created under your name. Even arrests for crimes where you were never charged show up on a criminal history record. If you are seeking employment, financing for a home, a lease for an apartment or any other situation where a background check may be called for, the arrest and charges will be there for all to see.
No matter how the case turned out, an arrest will stay on your criminal history record unless it has been expunged or sealed. The slightest notation on your record can put your standing for a job, loan or housing in serious jeopardy. If your record came about as the result of an arrest for a crime you did not commit, you may have a claim for defamation or malicious prosecution.
Florida Malicious Prosecution Attorneys
If you have been harmed in any way because you were arrested for a crime you did not commit, it is critical that you have a skilled defamation lawyer representing you. These are complex legal matters, and having the right representation behind you can help to ensure that your rights are respected.
We are fully aware of the impact a criminal history record can have on your reputation and your future. Our Tampa defamation claims attorneys are prepared to help you seek full and fair compensation for the damage you have suffered as the result of the arrest and subsequent prosecution.
A Strong Concentration on Retail Theft Arrests
Many of the cases we see in this area of our practice involve false arrests and prosecution for shoplifting. Loss prevention officers have a responsibility to ensure that an individual has actually stolen something before an arrest is made. In too many cases, these people will make assumptions about a possible theft without having actually witnessed it. We have helped numerous clients file suit against the loss prevention officer and the store he or she was employed by.
Contact our office today to discuss your case with a lawyer.
