Strategic Legal Representation for Libel and Slander Disputes
Your reputation is not just personal — it’s professional, financial, and foundational to every opportunity in your life or business. When someone publishes false and harmful statements about you, the consequences can be immediate and long-lasting. At Williford Law, we represent individuals, professionals, and businesses in [City] and across Texas in complex defamation claims involving libel, slander, and online reputation attacks.
Please note: Due to the fact-specific and high-stakes nature of defamation cases, consultations for defamation matters are not free. A paid consultation is required to evaluate your potential claim.
What Is Defamation Under Texas Law?
In Texas, defamation occurs when a person makes a false statement of fact about another, publishes it to a third party, and causes reputational or financial harm. The two primary categories of defamation are:
- Libel – Written or visual defamation, including posts on social media, articles, emails, or images.
- Slander – Spoken defamation, often occurring in workplaces, community settings, or professional circles.
To be actionable, the statement must be:
- False and presented as a fact (not opinion)
- Published to someone other than the subject
- Defamatory in nature (exposing the person to hatred, ridicule, or financial loss)
- Made with negligence (or actual malice, if the target is a public figure)
- The proximate cause of measurable harm
Common Defamation Scenarios We Handle
| Context | Examples of Defamatory Conduct |
| Social Media & Online | False accusations of criminal conduct or unethical behavior posted on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Google |
| Employment & Business | Slanderous claims spread to coworkers, clients, or potential employers |
| Professional Licensing | Defamatory complaints to licensing boards, regulators, or agencies |
| Public Statements | False public comments made at events, in media interviews, or in political campaigns |
| Business Competition | Malicious negative reviews, false claims to customers, or trade libel |
Whether the statement was made in person, in print, or online, we will analyze the facts and assess whether it rises to the level of legal defamation under Texas law.
Legal Hurdles in Texas Defamation Cases
Defamation cases are often misunderstood. Texas has strong free speech protections and a high legal standard for pursuing these claims:
- Strict One-Year Deadline – You must file suit within one year of the defamatory statement.
- Texas Anti-SLAPP Statute – If the case targets speech on a matter of public concern, the defendant may file a motion to dismiss early and recover attorney’s fees.
- Public Figures and Actual Malice – If you are a public official or public figure, you must prove the statement was made with actual malice — knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.
Because of these barriers, only strong and well-documented cases succeed. We help you assess your risks and your rights with transparency.
What You Can Recover in a Defamation Lawsuit
If your case meets legal requirements and proceeds successfully, you may be entitled to:
- Compensatory damages – For loss of reputation, emotional distress, and financial harm
- Economic losses – including lost income, contracts, or business opportunities
- Punitive damages – In cases of malicious, intentional, or reckless conduct
- Retraction or injunctions – To remove or correct defamatory statements
- Attorney’s fees – When available by statute or agreement
We also pursue pre-litigation remedies and negotiated settlements where appropriate.
Why Clients Choose Williford Law
- Strategic defamation counsel grounded in Texas litigation experience
- Relentless attention to factual detail and evidentiary strength
- Experience navigating online publication, reputation harm, and Anti-SLAPP laws
- Honest assessments and clear guidance before you commit to litigation
- Paid consultations to provide dedicated legal review and strategic insight
We don’t just file lawsuits. We build credible cases — and protect your name with purpose.
