Twitter Defamation
It is often difficult to know from the outset whether defamation on Twitter is strong enough to bring a valid claim under UK law. Someone may post a false statement about you, and others may repeat it, yet English law will look closely at who published it, how far it spread and the effect it had on your reputation. A tweet may appear defamatory to you but may not meet the legal test. Having said that, a tweet may reach only a small audience but still count as defamation because of its meaning and the harm it causes. The courts look at context, intention, exposure and the level of reputational damage.
A tweet sent to a large number of people may still fail as a defamation claim if it causes no serious harm. A smaller publication may succeed if the words carry a strong meaning or strike at the heart of your personal or professional character. This is why Twitter defamation claims need careful assessment and why it is important that you seek early legal advice.
If you believe you have been defamed on Twitter, you should seek legal advice before you respond, threaten legal action or decide to drop the matter. We offer a fixed fee consultation to give you clarity and a full understanding of where you stand. The aim is to help you make the right decision and to give you peace of mind, whatever the outcome.