When an organization is in a hard spot, it draws the attention of the media. Unfortunately, sometimes media outlets become overzealous and will publish malicious statements. Because countries interpret the relevant laws differently, having these statements retracted can often cause headaches.
In the second of a three-part series written for our Crisis Manager newsletter, Rene A. Henry explains why it’s important to know the laws, wherever you are:
If you can’t get a publication or media organization to correct or retract a defamatory or malicious statement, then the only alternative may be litigation. Chances of winning in court depend where you sue and where you live.
Courts in the U.S. require the plaintiff, or party libeled, to prove that the defendant published the statement knowing it to be false, or published it with reckless disregard to its truth. However, under laws in England, Canada, Australia, the British Caribbean, and other countries, the defendant is considered guilty until proved innocent.
Because this subject arises so often in crisis management, those in the field would be wise to become well versed in laws regarding slander, libel and the like.
The BCM Blogging Team
https://www.bernsteincrisismanagement.com/