Defamation
We work diligently to assess the impact of defamation, gather evidence, and pursue legal action to seek damages and restore our clients’ reputations. With our expertise in defamation law, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients in these sensitive matters.
Contact Us Today
Call: +44 1904 217184
Email: enquiries@pw-la.co.uk
The law of defamation aims to protect reputation, and applies to both individuals and companies.
There are two different types of civil claims for defamation: libel – which relates to the publication of a statement in permanent form, such as in writing, this also includes broadcasts or stage productions; slander – relates to making a statement by speech, gestures or conduct.
What is the Defamation Legislation?
The Defamation Act 1996 (DA 1996) remains largely in force, the most important provisions being those relating to the offer of amends defence (sections 2 to 4) and statutory privilege (sections 14 and 15).
Since the new Defamation Act of 2013, (DA 2013), came into force on 1 January 2014, a Claimant must demonstrate that the publication of the statement caused or is likely to cause serious harm to their reputation. A few provisions of the Defamation Act 1952 (DA 1952) and of older Acts remain on the statute book, but these are rarely encountered in practice, with the exception of sections 11 (agreements for indemnity) and 12 (evidence of other damages recovered by claimant) of the DA 1952.
Since the Human Rights Act 1998 came into force, the law of defamation has had to accommodate the provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). It has been recognised in a number of decisions in the European Court of Human Rights that an individual’s right to reputation is part of the Article 8 right to respect for private life.
We Will Support You Every Step of the Way
In some cases, it will be necessary to balance that right against the right to freedom of expression enshrined in Article 10. We understand the human rights legislation and how this has to be interpreted alongside defamation law of libel and slander.The Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002 (SI 2002/2013) (E-Commerce Regulations) can also be relevant in cases involving allegations of online defamation, as they protect innocent disseminators of defamatory material over the internet.
All EU case law that was current at the end of the post-Brexit transition period was retained as part of UK law. However, the UK courts may depart from that case law, subject to certain limitations set out in the UK-EU withdrawal agreement. The EU caselaw continues to have some relevance in UK law on an ongoing basis, although EU principles and decisions made after the end of the transition period are not binding on UK courts or tribunals.
Possible defamation claimants may have other legal options available to them. We can advise you on whether you have a claim for defamation and/or if there is a claim for malicious falsehood, breach of confidence, misuse of private information, harassment, breach of data protection laws and infringement of intellectual property rights.
We act for clients and advise on every aspect of defamation law and related tort actions.
Our Fees
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Case & Document Review - £175+VAT |
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Drafting Claim and issuing possession proceedings County Court - Section 21 Notice - £175+VAT |
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Drafting Claim and issuing possession proceedings in County Court - Section 8 Notice -£250+VAT |
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Preparation Review Hearing (including document bundle) & Representation - £350+VAT |
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Court Fee to Issue Proceedings(subject to change) County Court - £415 |
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Advocacy fee in addition if required for final hearing - £400-£950+VAT |
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Warrant of Possession (drafting plus Court fee (£152-subject to change) |
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Transferring up proceedings to High Court for writ of possession and control (Optional for Judgments over £600, must be used for judgment over £25000) Writ of Possession(includes High Court Enforcement agency instruction) - £250+VAT |
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Why Choose PW-LA?
WHY SHOULD YOU INSTRUCT PW-LA REPRESENT YOU?
EXPERT alternative dispute resolution
With specialist expertise in dispute resolution, PW-LA delivers comprehensive litigation and advocacy services focussing on tailored fixed fees to meet clients’ specific budgets and desired outcomes.
CLient centred approach
Clients are priority receiving equal attention to your unique experiences, perspectives and circumstances; listening to your concerns with empathy and understanding, and acting in your best interests is the service you can expect. Taking care to ensure your budget aligns with your expectations and achieving that best desired outcome. You will receive clear, practical advice and representation, guiding you through the legal process with transparency, at all times mindful of legal costs to pursue or defend a case.
embracing advanced technology
PW-LA embraces the latest technology and tailored specialist legal AI software, passing on the benefits of reduced preparation times, and adding savings on costs. Providing you with convenient and efficient litigation and advocacy services. From virtual consultations to flexible communication options, including WhatsApp and Zoom, we ensure that you can access our services anytime, anywhere.
Get in touch today
Get in touch with PW-LA today for an initial free, no obligation consultation.
Our registered office is at Tower House Business Centre, Fishergate, York, YO10 4UA, United Kingdom.
