Can I file a slander case after being falsely accused of theft?

Full question:

I was let go from my job, reason giving cause of money shortages at this business. Now I am being accused of taking this money. Which I did not do. Workers from this business are telling customers and my friends I was fired because I took money from this business. Do I have a slander case?

  • Category: Civil Actions
  • Subcategory: Defamation
  • Date:
  • State: Virginia

Answer:

In Virginia, slander involves making false statements about someone that damage their reputation. According to Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-417), it is a Class 3 misdemeanor to falsely speak or write derogatory words about someone that could provoke violence or breach the peace.

If coworkers are telling customers and friends that you were fired for theft, and these statements are false, you may have grounds for a slander case. To succeed, you would need to prove that the statements were made with malice and that they harmed your reputation.

Consider consulting with a legal professional to discuss the specifics of your situation and explore your options.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, you can potentially sue an employer for falsely accusing you of stealing. If the accusation is untrue and damages your reputation, you may have a case for defamation, which includes slander if the false statement was spoken. It's important to gather evidence and consult with a legal professional to assess your situation and options.