The question of whether a statement constitutes an actionable statement or merely protected opinion is one of the most difficult questions for a judge to consider in the defamation context. In fact, the California Supreme Court said in a case: "The distinction as to what is a statement of fact and what is a statement of opinion is frequently a difficult one." The … [Read more...] about Examples of the Thin line Between Actionable Statements And Mere Opinions
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A Little Known Requirement in the California anti-SLAPP Statute
I was not surprised last week when a Judge said that anti-SLAPP is a complicated area of law—it most certainly is. There are well over 350 published decisions on the subject, including several California Supreme court decisions. I often tell other lawyers that they need to be very careful in crafting their papers in support of or in opposition to an anti-SLAPP motion. One … [Read more...] about A Little Known Requirement in the California anti-SLAPP Statute
Best Of California Defamation Law Blog: 2009
This has been an exciting year here at the California Defamation Law Blog, so I thought it'd be a good idea to highlight our top 10 favorite posts, considering page views, comments, and other forms of reader feedback. I hope you revisit and enjoy these posts. Here's to an even better 2010! Here they are: Do You Have A Case For Defamation? The Three Types Of Damages In … [Read more...] about Best Of California Defamation Law Blog: 2009
What Is A “Public Forum” For Purposes Of The Anti-SLAPP Statute?
The purpose of the so-called “SLAPP” statute is to eliminate lawsuits brought “primarily to chill the valid exercise of the constitutional right of freedom of speech and petition for the redress of grievances.” Code Civ. Proc. Section 425.16(a). Courts engage in a two-part analysis focusing first on whether the disputed cause of action arises from … [Read more...] about What Is A “Public Forum” For Purposes Of The Anti-SLAPP Statute?
Can You Amend A Complaint After An Anti-SLAPP Motion Is Filed?
You're a plaintiff and you just received an anti-SLAPP motion from the defendant. Your lawyer reviews the motion and determines that it is persuasive and is likely to result in a victory for the defendant, unless your complaint is amended. Is the court required to permit an amendment under section 425.16? Does the court have discretion to allow you to amend the complaint? The … [Read more...] about Can You Amend A Complaint After An Anti-SLAPP Motion Is Filed?