Defamation Update: Local Council´s Exposure To Claims

There has been a notable increase in the number of defamation suits involving local councils in the last few years with most actions arising out of material published on websites, in newsletters or via press releases.

Defamation proceedings are time consuming, complex and the costs associated with defending claims often significantly outweigh any damage sustained. The litigation can lead to negative publicity for the council and can also be very distressing for individual officers named as defendants to an action.

What Is Defamation

The history of defamation is colourful. Libel and slander evolved from religious offences in English Common Law through to political offences for the protection of government and finally as a means of restoring private honour following the prohibition of duelling. Although times have changed, the law of defamation still attempts to cut a balance between freedom