Defamation

With Your Legal GP

UK defamation law has evolved, aiming to protect individuals from unjust harm to their reputation while respecting free speech principles, especially in the modern era of digital publishing and international influence. About 200 defamation claims are issued in England and Wales each year, and only a dozen or so make it to trial. Before you take your claim to court:

• High costs and risks: Defamation cases in the UK can be complicated and costly. If you decide to take your case to trial, you'll face high legal fees, and if you don't win, you'll likely have to pay the defendant's legal costs. It's important to carefully consider the financial risks before moving forward.
• Serious harm requirement: If you're considering a defamation claim, you'll need to show that the statement in question has caused—or is likely to cause—serious harm to your reputation.
• Time considerations: If your defamation case is straightforward, it could take about a year to resolve. But if it's more complex, you might be looking at several years before it's settled. So, be prepared for a potentially long journey.
• Single Publication Rule: Under the Single Publication Rule, you have one year from the first publication date to file a defamation claim. This prevents multiple claims for the same online content, as each new "view" doesn't restart the clock.
• Business claims: If you're a business, this harm has to be serious enough to lead to real financial loss, not just reputational damage.

Getting advice from Your Legal GP means you'll have experienced support tailored just for you, helping you understand your options and giving you the confidence to handle any dispute.

Read more about defamation law