Full question:
I am a realtor employed by a large firm and was unfairly treated by the acting assistant broker of my office at the time. I have since moved to another broker's office from the same firm. I was falsely accused 5 times for something I did not do (five different incidents). What repercussions do I have against that one assistant broker? Also rumors were spread about me after my move and he threatened me behind close doors to actually hit me.
- Category: Civil Actions
- Subcategory: Defamation
- Date:
- State: Alabama
Answer:
Conduct that harms others or their property is known as a tort. This is a private wrong for which you may seek damages. If you were subjected to false accusations and threats, you might have grounds for legal action.
The tort of intentional infliction of emotional distress occurs when someone purposely causes you unnecessary emotional pain through outrageous conduct. For example, if the assistant broker publicly humiliated you or threatened you, this could apply. However, you must prove that the conduct was outrageous and that you suffered damages as a result.
Additionally, if rumors were spread that damaged your reputation, you might have a defamation claim. To prove defamation, you need to show that false statements were made about you, that these statements were communicated to a third party, and that you suffered damages due to them. Slander, a type of defamation, involves making false oral statements that harm your reputation.
It's important to note that if the assistant broker made statements in good faith about a matter related to their job, they might be protected by a qualified privilege from slander liability. However, this protection does not apply if the statements were made maliciously.
For specific legal advice and to explore your options, consider consulting with a qualified attorney who can guide you based on your situation.
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.