Is free speech disappearing?

These days, it feels like free speech is under pressure from all sides. Whether it’s online debates, protests, or heated arguments in the media, people are increasingly finding themselves targeted just for expressing a view. In some cases, it leads to online abuse or reputational damage. In others, it can result in legal action.

Libel on social media: Key takeaways from Paisley v Linehan

The High Court has delivered another significant ruling on online defamation in Paisley v Linehan, in which our firm, Cohen Davis, acted for the claimant, David Paisley.

What was the case of Paisley v Linehan about?

David Paisley, the claimant, took legal action against Graham Linehan over comments posted on Linehan’s Substack page. The case centred around three specific comments in response to an article written by Linehan. These comments, made by third parties, accused Paisley of being a paedophile and of supporting a coordinated strategy by child molesters. The court had to decide whether these comments were defamatory and if they amounted to statements of fact or expressions of opinion. 

The defendant, Graham Linehan, is a well-known writer and television producer, best known for creating popular sitcoms such as Father Ted and The IT Crowd. In recent years, he has

Anonymous Internet defamation: what to do

The challenge of addressing online defamation is exacerbated when the perpetrator hides behind the veil of anonymity. However, with the evolving digital landscape, there are systematic measures and legal tools that can help unveil the identity of such defamers and protect the reputation of the aggrieved party. Here's an overview of what to do when confronted with anonymous internet defamation.

Case study of defamatory, out of context news articles

When a newspaper article is taken out of context, it can be twisted to give a false and harmful impression. This might happen on purpose or by mistake, but either way, it can unfairly damage someone's reputation. It's important to respect the right of people to have their words and actions shown truthfully. If someone feels a report has misrepresented them in a defamatory way, they may be able to take legal action to correct it.

Cohen Davis win a criminal and a civil harassment and defamation case against web design company

In the UK, while defamation itself doesn't lead to criminal prosecution, certain circumstances surrounding a defamation incident might still involve the criminal courts.

Our lawyers answer questions about defamation law in the UK

Below are some of the most common questions clients have asked us concerning defamation law in the UK. Remember, the intricacies of defamation law can be complex, and anyone dealing with such issues should seek advice from a legal professional who is familiar with the facts of their specific case to understand their rights and potential actions fully.

How do you stop someone from defaming you?

This case demonstrates a typical social media defamation case where with prompt action and the right legal support a case that could have lasted for years, was brought to a satisfactory outcome very promptly.

What to do if your former employer gives a defamatory job reference

The impact of an employer's reference on a job applicant's prospects cannot be overstated. A positive reference serves as a powerful endorsement, highlighting the applicant's competencies and suitability for the role. Conversely, a negative reference can significantly hinder their chances of securing the position. 

What to do if you have been defamed on the internet

How to avoid being a victim of defamation by former employees and partners

How to remove fake reviews from TrustPilot

Defamation on Twitter by an anonymous user

How does the court decide on meaning in defamation cases

Chase Levels are a useful tool for determining the degree of defamatory meaning or imputation in a statement, but they should not be considered the be-all and end-all when it comes to this analysis. Chase Levels help the court decide on meaning in defamation law cases.

What is the difference between a fact, an opinion, and a statement in defamation cases

In a significant legal decision, our client, David Paisley, has been granted the right to pursue a defamation claim against Graham Linehan, a well-known television writer. This case revolves around defamatory publications made by Linehan on his Substack account. Additionally, the court's decision allows Paisley to pursue claims related to defamatory comments made by third parties under Linehan's articles. The judgment, delivered by Deputy High Court Judge Aidan Eardley KC, sets important guidance for interpreting defamatory statements in online publications.

Cohen Davis win an injunction in a blackmail case

In this blackmail injunction case, our client, who was subjected to blackmail was a US citizen who worked in the financial services industry and the entertainment business. He occasionally visited the UK for the purpose of his business. He was married and a father to a child.

Defamation including false allegations of sexual assault

In this libel defamation case, Yair Cohen and Filiz Kiani of Cohen Davis Solicitors represented Jack Aaronson, also known as Dominic Ford, owner of the platform JustforFans.com,  where he took Marcus Stones, popularly known as Mickey Taylor to court. The case, presided over by Mr Justice Julian Knowles at the Royal Courts of Justice in London, shed light on the power of social media and the consequences of false accusations. Let's delve into the facts of the case and the judge's ruling.

Is it possible to obtain defamation injunctions prior to publication

Slander and libel warning letter to the website operator

Sending a pre-action protocol letter following a defamatory publication online 

Important factors to consider before taking legal action for defamation on the internet

How to make a sensible decision whether to take legal action for libel

What to do if you are falsely accused of rape

Suing for defamation after being cancelled

Cohen Davis win the first ever case of damages award for defamation and breach of data

How to protect yourself against online defamation

What to do when a user posts defamatory content about you on social media

It's no secret that social media can be a breeding ground for defamatory content. Whether it's an ex-partner airing your dirty laundry, or a disgruntled employee badmouthing your company, this type of content can have a major impact on your reputation.

How you protect yourself against false accusations on the internet

False accusations on the internet have become a common occurrence, with the ease of access to social media and other platforms making it easier for anyone to share information without double-checking its validity.

Unfortunately, this has caused a great amount of harm to innocent people, who have been wrongfully accused of wrongdoing and have no means of defending themselves.

How can a business defend itself against defamation online

What happens when a business is being defamed online? Can anything be done about it or free speech is king? The following case study gives some answers to these questions by considering a typical situation of online defamation which small and medium size business often face.

What is defamation by innuendo

Defamation by innuendo refers to misleading implications in statements that can subtly damage a person's reputation without making direct accusations. The vast and rapid spread of information online, coupled with a tendency for sensationalism, makes such indirect defamation particularly harmful on the internet. Essentially, it's like whispering rumors, but on a global scale, where insinuations can be mistaken for truths.

What to do if you are subjected to false allegations of sexual assault on Instagram

One major issue that has become increasingly common is the rise of false allegations of sexual assault on Instagram. While the platform has been a powerful tool for genuine victims to share their stories and seek support, it has also been used by individuals to make unfounded claims of sexual assault against others. These false accusations can have devastating consequences for both the accused and the credibility of genuine victims.

Furthermore, the ease of sharing information on Instagram means that these allegations can quickly go viral, causing irreparable damage to a person's reputation. As such, it is crucial to address this issue and understand the impact of false accusations on both the accused and the larger community. In this article, we will delve into the prevalence of ...

Why you should consult a solicitor before making a defamation claim

While you don’t need to have a lawyer representing you in your defamation case, you will be wise to ensure that you have proper legal representation in place as early in the proceedings as possible Consulting a solicitor before making a defamation claim is crucial due to the complex nature of UK defamation law. When a defamation claim is unsuccessful, discontinued, or dismissed by a judge, it can exacerbate the situation. Such an outcome may inadvertently suggest to the public that the content in question was not defamatory, regardless of whether the claim was dismissed based on a technicality or a substantial issue. This perception can cause significant damage to the claimant's reputation or standing, potentially more so than the original alleged defamation.

Defamation by Investors Case study

This case study demonstrates how companies may manage a situation where defamation by shareholders results in losses, profits or reputation woes!

Emergency defamation injunctions: A guide

When it comes to online defamation, individuals and organisations often face the critical decision of whether to seek legal intervention before harmful content is published. Understanding the nuances of interim injunctions for defamation is crucial for anyone seeking to protect their reputation pre-emptively. This article aims to explain, in simple terms, the concept of interim defamation injunctionsand the considerations involved in pursuing one.

What can I do about an unfair Google review?

Whilst Google's review policies are stringent and aimed at ensuring that every review is legitimate and unbiased, there are situations that warrant removing a review, such as if it violates Google's content policies or is fraudulent. There are also instances where a review may be removed following a request from a business owner or a third party, such as their solicitors. To get a better understanding of under what circumstances Google would remove an online business review, we will examine the different policy violations and instances that may warrant removal in this blog post.

How do you fight fake reviews

Online reviews can significantly impact a business's reputation and bottom line. However, not all reviews are genuine; fake and defamatory online reviews  are a growing concern. Businesses, particularly small ones, can find themselves at the mercy of false accusations on the internet, often orchestrated by competitors. This deceptive practice not only skews public perception but can lead to serious financial harm.

Defamation no win no fee - Our commitment to justice

At Cohen Davis, we specialise in defamation cases, understanding the critical impact they can have on individuals and organisations alike. We believe in access to justice for all, which is why each year we offer to take on an increasing number of cases on a "no win no fee" basis under Conditional Fee Agreements (CFA). This approach underscores our dedication to helping those affected by defamation, regardless of their financial situation.

How to decide whether to take legal action for defamation

How to take legal action for defamation against an anonymous user

The defamatory hub of Tattle.Life

As the number of victims on this platform is at all time high, Cohen Davis, together with other organisations are committed to bringing justice to those influencers and celebrity affected

What to do if you are falsely accused of rape on social media

Can you sue someone for spreading lies about you on the internet

How to write an online review which is not defamatory

How to take down negative articles from the internet

Defamation by investor case where a shareholder was held liable for defaming a company

Fake online reviews about restaurants legal advice

How to remove online reviews from review websites outside the UK

Can a company take legal action for a negative review

How to deal with fraudulent review websites

What to do if you need to uncover the identity of your internet troll

Who can have search results removed under a right to be forgotten

Defamation solicitors with focus on internet and social media law

Strategies and approaches for removing fake online reviews

In this case study, we explore the challenges faced by a small business suffering from defamatory online reviews and the strategic approach taken by a law firm to effectively remove fake online content. By examining the specific steps, legal tactics, and collaborative efforts employed, this article aims to provide valuable insights for businesses dealing with similar issues and highlight the importance of a tailored, cost-effective approach to addressing online defamation and protecting a company's reputation.

How to remove a review from Yelp.com

How to remove a business review from ReviewCentre

Is it illegal to post fake online reviews

How to stop a UK harasser from harassing someone in another country

Legal advice about social media from an expert social media lawyer

How to remove a defamatory fake reviews from TripAdvisor

How to remove a defamatory YouTube video

Alternatives to litigation in defamation cases

What to do if your business is defamed on Google

Defamation against a company and defamation against directors

The first defamation injunction case in the UK against Google search results and blogs

What to do if someone is slandering your business on the internet

If you have recently suffered defamation by competitors or if someone is slandering your business, you might be able to do something about it but you will need to act fast.

How to overcome online defamation and restore your reputation

If you’re struggling to remove defamatory content posted about you online, or are seeking legal help regarding this issue, read the following case study to grasp how our firm cam help you.

How dental clinics can effectively deal with fake and defamatory online reviews

Defamation during a demonstration

In this article, we look at a special case where a newspaper journalist from outside the UK is accused of defamation. Defamation means saying or writing something false about someone that harms their reputation. This case study shows how tricky it can be to take legal action in the UK against a newspaper that's based in another country. We'll talk about the different challenges, like dealing with laws from different places and figuring out which country's courts can make decisions. This situation gets even more complicated because of how easily news can spread across the world online.

What is Section 13 of the Defamation Act 2013

How to choose a defamation lawyer