1. When a journalist has accidently defamed someone, the person can still sue. Defamation is defamation, even if it is innocent or unintentionally done. I would let the lady have a full page ad for free if it ment my newspaper wouldn't be taken to court for defamation.
2. Having chosen a career that relies on media coverage for success, i don't think celebrities or anyone iin the lime light should be allowed to claim defamation as easily as the average person. If celebrities sued for every would which affected their reputation etc they would be constantly in court arguing cases of defamation.
3. If a source gave me false information and my paper was being sued for defamation i would reveal her name in order to defend my paper against allegations.
Points of Interest:
- There are many things you can do to avoid defamation including ensuring your notes are organised and correct in case you end up in court, try to avoid arguments, starting or retaliating, with interviewees, make sure you do your best to cover both sides of your story to make sure balance is achieved or at least attempted, never assume anything, double check spelling of names etc...
- Dead people nor governments can sue for defamation. A person cannot defame themselves. People can sue if statements about people reflect badly on them.
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