Defamation Notice

What is a Defamation Notice?

A defamation notice is a formal document sent to someone who has made false and harmful statements about you or your business. These statements could be in the form of libel (written defamation) or slander (spoken defamation). The notice serves as a legal demand for the recipient to cease making such defamatory remarks, remove any published content, and issue a public apology or retraction.

If the recipient doesn't comply, they could face legal action, including a defamation lawsuit for libel or slander, as well as compensation for any harm to your reputation and income.

Steps for Drafting or Sending Legal Notice for Defamation

Simply download your defamation notice format, send it to anyone online securely, or have the physical copy delivered right to your doorstep - all with professional handling and proof of receipt. Follow these easy steps to ensure your legal notice is prepared or sent fast and safely.

Enter Your Details

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Make Payment

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Review it, (Under Approval)

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Sent to the Opposing Party

Why Choose DigiLawyer to Draft Defamation Notices?

Need to send a legal notice of defamation to protect your reputation or address false statements? We make it simple - With DigiLawyer, you get help from real lawyers, strong legal documents, and quick delivery - all without leaving your home.

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Consult directly with experienced, licensed lawyers who review, sign, and stamp your legal notice - ensuring it holds legal weight and delivers impact.

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For Individuals & Businesses

For individuals protecting reputation or business addressing false claims, we makes sending a defamation notice easy, reliable & effective.

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How Can DigiLawyer Help You?

Common Cases Involving Defamatory Claims

Legal warnings are often sent in cases involving false statements, including

1. False posts or comments on social media- When someone spreads lies online that damage your reputation 
2. Wrong information published in newspapers or blogs- When the media prints or posts inaccurate content that harms your image 
3. Misleading public statements damaging your image- When someone makes public claims that lower your social or professional standing 
4. Accusations that harm your career or business reputation- When false allegations affect your job, income, or brand value 

What Does the Defamation Notice Format Include?

When drafting a legal defamation notice, make sure to include:

1. Your full legal name and contact details 
2. Identity of the person/company responsible 
3. Date and details of the defamatory statement 
4. Evidence supporting the falsity of the claim 
5. Clear demands (e.g., apology, retraction, compensation) 
6. A deadline to respond (usually 7–15 days) 
7. Intention to initiate legal action if unresolved 

When Should You Take Legal Action Over False Allegations?

You should legally respond to harmful or false claims: 

• Immediately upon identifying defamatory content published online, in print, through media, social platforms, or verbal statements. 
• Before initiating civil or criminal defamation proceedings, legal notice often encourages apology, or settlement. 
• When defamatory statements begin to impact your personal life, business reputation, or public image. 
• Once you have collected preliminary evidence, such as screenshots, video/audio recordings, or witness statements supporting your claim. 
• To ensure compliance with legal timelines, such as the one-year limitation period for civil or criminal defamation cases. 

Consequences of Ignoring a Defamation Notice 

The following may be the consequences of ignoring a Defamation Notice 

1. Civil Lawsuit for Damages- The aggrieved party may file a civil defamation suit seeking monetary compensation for the mental distress, reputational damage, or business loss suffered due to the defamatory statement. 

2. Criminal Defamation Proceedings- The sender can initiate criminal proceedings. If the other person is found guilty, they may face the following consequences- 

• Up to 2 years of imprisonment 
• A monetary fine, or 
• Both, depending on the gravity of the offense 

3. Court Injunctions and Orders- The court may issue an injunction preventing the guilty person from repeating or circulating the defamatory content further. In some cases, courts may order a public apology. 

4. Adverse Inference by Courts- Silence or non-response of notice may be viewed unfavorably by the court. It may indicate a lack of defense or accountability, weakening the position of the person guilty during trial. 

5. Increased Legal Costs- Litigation arising from ignored notices can result in heavy legal costs, including lawyer fees, court charges, and potential penalties. 

6. Further Reputational Damage- Once legal proceedings become public, it may attract media attention or harm the guilty person’s personal and professional standing even further. 

Governing Laws 

1. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023: 

• Section 354 deals with criminal defamation. 
• If someone is found guilty, they may face: 
• Imprisonment for up to 2 years, or 
• Fine, or 
• Both fine and imprisonment 

2. Under Civil Law: 

• You can claim financial compensation for damage to your reputation, mental stress, or loss of work. 

3. Under the Information Technology Act, 2000 (for online defamation): 

• Platforms can be used to remove defamatory content. 
• The person responsible may also face cyber legal action. 

These laws ensure that your reputation is legally protected, and anyone spreading false statements can be held accountable. 

FAQs Related to Defamation Notice