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Defamation

by John Steven Niznik
for About.com

Is it Defamation if an Employer States the Truth about Me?

Many states are allowing employers to speak more candidly about former employees during background and reference checks, without the risks involved in defamation lawsuits. For example, several states grant employers immunity from liability for truthfully disclosing information about job performance and reasons for termination.

Consequently, if your employer candidly issues an employment-related statement about you that's allowed by state law, it's not likely to be defamation of character even if it hurts your career. If you file a defamation lawsuit anyway and your employer proves in court that the statement was true, then you might suffer further damage to your career.

Defamation
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"Defamation" offers information only and is not intended as legal advice. Neither the author nor publisher are engaged in rendering legal services. Please see an attorney for legal advice. Because laws vary by state and are subject to change, neither the author nor publisher guarantees the accuracy of this article. Should you act based on this information, you do so at your sole risk. Neither the author nor publisher shall have any liability arising from your decision to act on this information.
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