A backstabber is a person who is deceitful and untrustworthy, often pretending to be loyal while secretly intending to cause harm. This term is commonly used in social and professional contexts to describe individuals who betray others, particularly when they are not present to defend themselves.
The term "backstabber" is not a legal term per se, but it can be relevant in various legal contexts, such as defamation or workplace harassment. In civil law, a person may seek legal recourse if they suffer harm due to the deceitful actions of another. This can include filing lawsuits for damages caused by slander or libel, where a backstabber spreads false information to harm someone's reputation.
Users can manage certain legal processes themselves using legal templates from US Legal Forms, especially in cases involving workplace disputes or defamation claims.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A coworker who pretends to support a colleague's project while secretly undermining it by sharing negative feedback with management. This can lead to professional harm for the colleague.
Example 2: A friend who shares personal secrets with others, damaging the trust in the friendship and causing emotional distress to the person betrayed. (hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Backstabber | A person who betrays trust while pretending to be loyal. | Focuses on deceit in personal or professional relationships. |
| Defamer | A person who damages another's reputation through false statements. | Specifically involves spreading false information rather than general betrayal. |
| Saboteur | A person who deliberately disrupts or undermines efforts. | Focuses on actions taken to harm someone's success, not necessarily trust. |
If you believe you are a victim of backstabbing, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Contexts | Workplace, friendships, social circles |
| Potential Harm | Reputational damage, emotional distress |
| Legal Recourse | Defamation lawsuits, workplace harassment claims |
Document your experiences and consider discussing your concerns with trusted colleagues or friends.