Defamation - Libel & Slander

"Character assassination is at once easier and surer than physical assault; and it involves far less risk for the assassin. It leaves him free to commit the same deed over and over again, and may, indeed, win him the honors of a hero in the country of his victims." Alan Barth

Protecting Your Reputation: Aurora Assist's Expertise in Defamation Claims

Aurora Assist, with its presence in both UK and US jurisdictions, stands uniquely equipped to offer unparalleled assistance if you're faced with a solicitor or attorney's demanding letter alleging defamation in either territory. Here's how we can be of service:

Dual Jurisdiction Proficiency

Our seasoned attorneys are adept in the defamation laws of both the UK and the US, offering insights into the distinct nuances, standards, and defences pertinent to each jurisdiction's defamation claims.

Case Assessment 

We meticulously scrutinise the demanding letter to grasp the defamation claim's essence against you. By dissecting the specific allegations and legal contentions, we gauge the claim's potential repercussions on your reputation and furnish a lucid evaluation of the case's merits.

Tailored Legal Counsel

Aurora Assist's proficiency in both UK and US defamation statutes allows us to deliver bespoke legal advice attuned to each jurisdiction. We elucidate the pertinent legal doctrines, evidence standards, and potential defences, empowering you to make enlightened decisions.

Defence Formulation

Leveraging our understanding of UK and US defamation laws, we aid in devising a formidable defence strategy, pinpointing potential defences like truth, fair comment, or qualified privilege, ensuring alignment with each jurisdiction's legal benchmarks.

Evidence Compilation

We guide you in amassing and structuring evidence bolstering your defence in both territories. Our attorneys assist in pinpointing pertinent documents or communications that affirm the statement's veracity or buttress your stance.

Response Crafting

Our adept attorneys facilitate the creation of a cogent and compelling response to the demanding letter, considering both the UK and US's legal prerequisites and cultural nuances. We ensure your rejoinder addresses pivotal concerns, safeguards your rights, and augments the likelihood of a propitious outcome in both territories.


US Defamation Defence

In the US, the First Amendment of the Constitution, safeguarding speech freedom, underpins defamation defence. A triumphant defence necessitates establishing the statement's veracity or its categorisation as protected speech. Truth remains an unassailable defence, and opinions on public interest matters, rooted in factual truths or disclosed as subjective views, might be shielded under "fair comment" or "opinion privilege". Moreover, public figures bear a heightened proof onus, necessitating demonstration of "actual malice" in the statement's issuance.


UK Defamation Defence

The UK's defamation laws accentuate reputation safeguarding more than the US. Defences against defamation allegations encompass truth, where establishing the statement's substantial veracity negates the claim. The "honest opinion" or "fair comment" defence applies to genuinely held opinions based on discernible facts. Additionally, "qualified privilege" might be invoked under specific scenarios, protecting certain good faith statements made in public interest or fulfilling a legal or moral duty.