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Maryland Defamation Attorney for Libel & Slander

When False Statements Damage Real Lives

A Maryland Defamation Lawyer Who Knows What's at Stake

A single post, rumor, or email can derail a career or strain family and community ties. The Law Office of David V. Diggs, LLC represents clients across Maryland in claims for libel and slander. If you are searching for a libel slander attorney in Maryland, we move quickly to identify the speakers, preserve evidence, and pursue relief that restores your good name.

What Is Defamation?

Understanding Libel and Slander in Plain English

Defamation is a false statement of fact, communicated to others, that harms your reputation. Libel is written (articles, emails, texts, online posts). Slander is spoken (meetings, calls, community gatherings). We help determine whether statements are factual claims-not protected opinion-and whether they meet Maryland's standards for a viable case.

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What You Must Prove in Maryland

Key Elements for a Defamation Claim

Most Maryland cases require proof of: (1) a false statement, (2) publication to a third party, (3) fault-negligence for private individuals or "actual malice" for public figures, and (4) damages, unless the statement is actionable per se (for example, accusing someone of a crime or professional incompetence). We build the record with screenshots, letters, and witness testimony so the court sees a clear timeline and impact.

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Why It Matters

Defamation can lead to job loss, lost clients, disciplinary investigations, and emotional distress. We pursue remedies that matter-money damages to address losses and, when appropriate, retractions or corrections to set the record straight.

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Where Defamation Happens

Online accusations on neighborhood groups, false workplace allegations, inaccurate news pieces, and targeted campaigns on social media can all qualify as defamation. Our background serving public servants and union members helps when reputational harm intersects with civil service rules, collective bargaining contexts, or professional licensure.

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Defenses & Challenges

Truth is a complete defense. Pure opinion (that doesn't imply undisclosed facts) may be protected. Privileged settings-like court filings-are generally off-limits for suit. We'll give candid advice if a statement is likely protected, and we'll confront weak "opinion" claims when posts read as factual accusations.

Questions About Libel and Slander

Straight Answers on Maryland Defamation Law

  • Is it hard to win a defamation case?

    They require clear proof of falsity and harm; standards are higher for public figures.

  • What damages can I recover?

    Lost income, business losses, and general damages for reputational and emotional harm; punitive damages may be available with actual malice.

  • Can I sue over a Facebook post?

    Yes, online libel is actionable if it meets the elements; anonymous posters can sometimes be identified.

  • Can I stop someone from repeating lies?

    Courts hesitate to restrict speech in advance, but removal orders or injunctions may be possible after findings of defamation.

  • How long do I have to sue?

    Maryland's defamation deadline is generally one year-act quickly.

Restore Your Good Name

Call a Maryland Defamation Attorney Who Will Stand Up for You

Across Maryland, The Law Office of David V. Diggs, LLC moves quickly to investigate and fights to correct the record.