Band Hatton warns over dangers of social media

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A team of legal experts has warned users of sites such as Twitter and Facebook to be careful what they write – or potentially end up in court.

 

Jul 05, 2011 – Recent headlines have been filled with stories of internet users posting untrue information about those in the public eye via various social media outlets.

Now, Coventry law firm Band Hatton has warned that what people write online could land them in court and facing hefty bills for damages running into tens of thousands of pounds.

John French, solicitor at Station Square-based Band Hatton, explained that while defamation laws were initially built around traditional forms of print and broadcast media they also apply to the internet.

“Defamation is a very contentious area of law which exists to protect the good reputations of individuals, companies and goods or services from untrue and derogatory verbal and written statements,”

he said.

“Historically defamation actions have been brought following comments made in newspapers, magazines, books and journals.

“However, over the last 10 years more and more people are using networking sites to share their views about people, corporate entities and goods and services.

“Many are under the impression they can make virtually any comment they like on these sites without legal repercussions.

“Sadly for them the law of defamation applies equally to untrue and derogatory comments posted on the internet as it does in the more traditional forms of media and anyone who makes untrue or derogatory remarks runs the risk of being sued for damages which could run into tens of thousands of pounds.”

French also warned defamation laws do not just apply to the rich and famous and that simply saying sorry after passing comment might not be enough to prevent a claim for damages to reputation.

“The penalties for defaming less well known individuals and companies can still lead to substantial damages being awarded, and that has happened in several notable cases,” he said.

“An immediate apology following a defamatory comment will normally act as a defence but this should not be used as a door to hide behind.

“The best way to avoid being sued for defamation is to make absolutely sure any comments posted on the internet are fair and reasonable under the circumstances and fully justified.”

Media enquiries:
Simon Gilbert
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

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Advent Communications is a well-established public relations consultancy based in Coventry.

In ten years it has built a reputation as a practical provider of news driven PR to a range of industry sectors.