New York Defamation Defense Attorney
If you’re a victim of abuse facing a defamation lawsuit in New York for speaking out, we provide strategic legal defense against libel and slander claims. Schedule a confidential consultation to learn how we can help protect your rights.
Understanding Defamation Laws in New York
Defamation laws in New York aim to balance free speech with protection against false and harmful statements. A defamation claim—whether for libel (written) or slander (spoken)—requires that the statement was false, published to a third party, and caused harm. The speaker must have acted with at least negligence, or with actual malice if the subject is a public figure. New York also has strong free speech protections, including anti-SLAPP laws that allow courts to dismiss meritless lawsuits intended to silence individuals speaking on matters of public concern.
Types of Defamation Cases We Handle
Defamation claims typically fall into two categories: libel and slander. Understanding the difference between them is essential when responding to or defending against a lawsuit.
Libel
Libel refers to false and harmful written statements, such as those made in articles, online posts, or social media.
Slander
Slander involves false spoken statements, such as comments made during public events, interviews, or recordings.
Some defamation lawsuits—particularly those targeting survivors who speak out—are known as SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation). These suits are not meant to resolve legitimate disputes, but to intimidate, silence, and burden individuals for speaking on matters of public concern. Often meritless, they aim to suppress free speech through costly legal pressure.
Why choose ALM Law
Our legal team focuses on protecting survivors from unfair lawsuits and ensuring their voices are not unjustly silenced.
- Skilled in defamation defense: We understand the complexities of libel and slander cases and know how to build a strong defense for victims who are sued for speaking out.
- Tailored legal strategies: We create personalized legal strategies to effectively protect your rights.
- Compassionate, trauma-informed approach: We understand the emotional and psychological toll that defamation lawsuits can have on the victims, and we approach each case with sensitivity, empathy, and care.
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Who We Represent
We are defamation defense attorneys in New York who represent survivors of abuse being sued for speaking out. Many of our clients are targeted with libel or slander claims after sharing their experiences publicly—whether online, in the media, or within their communities. These lawsuits are often intended to intimidate and silence. We provide strategic, trauma-informed legal defense to protect our clients’ rights and ensure their voices are not unfairly suppressed.
Defamation Defense in New York
Defamation lawsuits can be overwhelming—especially when they threaten your reputation, livelihood, or personal well-being. Whether the claim involves libel or slander, these cases often rely on complex legal arguments and are sometimes used to silence those who speak out about abuse or misconduct.
If you’re being sued for defamation after sharing your story, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and defenses. A defamation attorney for victims can help you fight back and protect your voice from being unjustly silenced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a defamation defense attorney and how can they help in New York?
A defamation lawsuit attorney represents individuals who have been accused of making defamatory statements. They develop legal defenses to challenge libel or slander claims and ensure their clients’ rights are protected.
What should I do if I’m being sued for defamation in New York?
If you’re a survivor being sued for defamation, it’s important to seek legal representation right away. A defamation defense attorney can evaluate the claims, identify strong legal defenses—such as truth, opinion, or privilege—and determine whether your speech is protected under the First Amendment or New York’s anti-SLAPP law. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights and prevent further harm.
What are common claims in defamation lawsuits?
Defamation lawsuits typically arise when someone alleges that false statements have caused them harm. However, many lawsuits are misused as a tactic to silence survivors who speak out. A defamation defense attorney can help fight these claims.
How can an anti-SLAPP motion help me?
If you’re a survivor being sued for defamation after speaking out about abuse, New York’s anti-SLAPP law may help protect your right to tell your story. An anti-SLAPP motion asks the court to dismiss lawsuits intended to intimidate or silence you. If successful, it can end the case early and may entitle you to recover attorney’s fees and other legal costs.
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