A defamatory statement can do lasting harm to the reputation of a person or a business, and financial consequences often follow. Defamation in Canada involves the publication of a false statement of fact that damages the reputation of the person it concerns. A statement published online can reach a wide audience before any correction is made, which is why advice taken early tends to leave more options open.
Depending on the case, the response may be a formal demand to cease and desist, a request to the platform for removal or a negotiated retraction, and in more serious cases an action in court. The choice among them depends on the nature of the statement and its reach, as well as on the identity of the person who published it.
Keystone Legal advises and represents individuals and businesses in Alberta who have been defamed. Contested matters proceed at the Calgary Courts Centre, where counsel appears in person, and advisory and uncontested work is available anywhere in Alberta. The firm first assesses whether the statement is actionable and which remedies are open, and then weighs the protection of the client’s reputation against the risk that a public dispute draws further attention to the statement.
Anyone who believes a defamatory statement has been published about them may reach the firm at (587) 328-3328.
Related services
- Professional Regulatory Response
- Data Protection & Operational Risk Review
- Privacy & Compliance Advisory
- Digital Privacy & Reputation Risk Advisory
- Defamation & Reputation Protection
- Non-Disclosure & Reputation Management Agreements
- Online Harassment & Injunctive Relief
- Privacy Compliance Advisory (PIPEDA / Bill C-27)
