I started a new job and used my old job as a reference. But I think my previous boss might be giving me a bad rep. There was this group photo from back then, and I had a skin issue at the time. Now I’m worried he’s showing that picture or saying things to hurt my reputation. It’s been six months since I left, so I’m not sure if there’s anything I can do legally. Any advice?
If he’s spreading false info, that could count as defamation. You’d probably need proof he’s lying, though, to take action.
Keaton said:
If he’s spreading false info, that could count as defamation. You’d probably need proof he’s lying, though, to take action.
What’s defamation? I’ve heard it but not totally sure what it means here.
@Jules
Basically, it’s when someone spreads false statements that damage your reputation. For work, it could hurt job prospects.
Keaton said:
If he’s spreading false info, that could count as defamation. You’d probably need proof he’s lying, though, to take action.
Makes sense. Problem is, I don’t have solid proof, just a gut feeling.
In some places, if they’re just sharing true info that doesn’t sound great, it’s not defamation. Has to be false to count.
Sable said:
In some places, if they’re just sharing true info that doesn’t sound great, it’s not defamation. Has to be false to count.
Yeah, truth is a defense in defamation cases. If he’s just talking about stuff that happened, it’s harder to prove anything.
Sable said:
In some places, if they’re just sharing true info that doesn’t sound great, it’s not defamation. Has to be false to count.
Good to know. I’m guessing he’s using that photo in a negative way, but again, no proof.
If he’s actually saying false stuff, you could look into a cease and desist letter. That might get him to stop if it’s affecting you.
Zyler said:
If he’s actually saying false stuff, you could look into a cease and desist letter. That might get him to stop if it’s affecting you.
That’s an idea. I’ll see if that’s something I could do, thanks!
Is there a time limit for defamation cases? Like, if this happened a while ago, can you still do something?
Remington said:
Is there a time limit for defamation cases? Like, if this happened a while ago, can you still do something?
Yeah, usually there’s a limit. I think it’s two years in some states, but check your local laws to be sure.
Remington said:
Is there a time limit for defamation cases? Like, if this happened a while ago, can you still do something?
Thanks for that! I’ll look into the rules where I’m at.
If the people at your old job know what’s up but won’t back you up, it might be a tough case to make. Maybe keep track of everything just in case?
Nico said:
If the people at your old job know what’s up but won’t back you up, it might be a tough case to make. Maybe keep track of everything just in case?
Yeah, it’s a small town thing… no one wants to go against the boss.
Nico said:
If the people at your old job know what’s up but won’t back you up, it might be a tough case to make. Maybe keep track of everything just in case?
Small towns can be rough for stuff like this. Definitely keep notes if things keep coming up.