Defamation of Character in the Workplace

Table of Contents




I. Introduction
II. Definition, Types, and Examples of Defamation
III. How Employers Can Protect Themselves
IV. How Employees Can Protect Themselves
V. Conclusion
VI. References









I. Introduction


The inability for certain individuals to find employment is oftentimes blamed on the previous employer that individual had. Nowadays many employers are being blamed and sue by former employees for giving negative references that have hindered their ability to find new employment with other agencies. Mark R. Hornak comments on this problem that employers are facing in his article titled, Avoiding Defamation in the Workplace, Giving References, and Disciplining Employees While Avoiding Liability, by stating:
This blame often evolves into a lawsuit for defamation, although the theories of intentional infliction of emotional distress, interference with contract, invasion of privacy, and discrimination have all been u...