ARTICLE · 28 JANUARY 2025

Defamation claims resulting from a workplace investigation

Hall Payne Lawyers

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Defamation laws exist to protect a person's reputation, including protection from unfounded accusations.

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A lot of employees ask, 'can I be defamed during a workplace investigation?' Most workplace investigations will involve some form of allegation or accusation. Defamation laws exist to protect a person's reputation, including protection from unfounded accusations.

What is defamation?

Because defamation laws vary from state to state, this article only provides a broad overview of the law. If you're considering your rights in relation to defamation, it's best to seek legal advice.

Defamation generally arises where there is communication (which might be written or verbal) which leads to a loss of reputation for an individual and where there is no available defence.

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