Best Defamation Lawyers in South Africa

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Goodway & Buck Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

English
Goodway & Buck Attorneys, based in Durban, South Africa, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims, personal injury cases, commercial law, and family law matters. The firm is particularly noted for its expertise in assisting refugees and South African...
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JMD ATTORNEYS

JMD ATTORNEYS

15 minutes Free Consultation
Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
English
How we WorkJM De Villiers Attorney is a dynamic firm specialising in commercial law and criminal law with a track record of delivering practical solutions to the legal challenges that all our clientele face.We have an extended network of professionals that we work closely with, giving us access to...
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STBB Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 1901
English
STBB Cape Town is a distinguished law firm renowned for its comprehensive legal services and a legacy spanning over 120 years. The firm has established itself as a leader in property law and conveyancing, offering unparalleled expertise in retail and development property transactions. Their...
Sambo and Makgabutlane Attorneys
Pretoria, South Africa

English
Sambo and Makgabutlane Attorneys, based in Pretoria North, South Africa, is a dynamic law firm dedicated to delivering exceptional legal services. The firm specializes in various areas of law, including Family Law, Labour Law, Statutory and Regulatory Compliance, Commercial and Contract Law,...

English
Established in 1945 by Errol Walter Stowell, Stowell & Co Attorneys, Notaries Public & Conveyancers has evolved from a single-practitioner firm into one of KwaZulu-Natal's largest legal practices outside Durban. The firm operates from a historically significant building in Pietermaritzburg,...
Mothle Jooma Sabdia Inc.
Pretoria, South Africa

Founded in 2001
English
Mothle Jooma Sabdia Inc., established on March 1, 2001, is a 100% black-owned law firm in South Africa, dedicated to delivering specialized legal services with a focus on personalized client care. The firm offers expertise across various legal disciplines, including administrative law, commercial...
Basson & Louw
Malmesbury, South Africa

English
Basson & Louw is a distinguished law firm based in South Africa, renowned for its comprehensive legal services across various practice areas. The firm's team of seasoned attorneys brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the South African legal landscape, ensuring clients receive...
MB Maraisbasson Inc
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 1993
English
Marais Basson Inc., established in 1993, is a distinguished South African law firm with offices in Emalahleni and Pretoria. The firm specializes in personal injury claims, particularly those arising from motor vehicle accidents, and operates on a "no win, no fee" basis in most cases, adhering to...
Hough Bremner Incorporated
Johannesburg, South Africa

English
Hough Bremner Incorporated is a distinguished law firm based in South Africa, renowned for its comprehensive legal services and commitment to excellence. The firm's team of seasoned attorneys brings a wealth of experience across various legal disciplines, ensuring clients receive informed and...
RH Lawyers Inc
Durban, South Africa

English
RH Lawyers Inc, based in Sandton, Gauteng, specializes in personal injury and medical negligence law. The firm is dedicated to assisting individuals who have suffered harm due to accidents or medical malpractice, providing expert legal representation to clients throughout the Gauteng region. The...
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About Defamation Law in South Africa

Defamation in South Africa refers to the act of making a false statement about someone that damages their reputation. This can be done through spoken words (slander) or written words (libel). Defamation can have serious consequences for both the person making the statement and the person being defamed.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you have been accused of defamation or if you believe you have been defamed. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, explore legal options, and navigate the complexities of defamation law in South Africa.

Local Laws Overview

In South Africa, defamation is governed by common law principles as well as the Defamation Act of 1958. Key aspects of defamation law in South Africa include the requirement of falsity, publication, and the potential defenses of truth and public interest. Courts take defamation cases seriously and may award damages to the defamed party.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes defamation in South Africa?

Defamation in South Africa involves making a false statement about someone that damages their reputation. This can include both verbal statements (slander) and written statements (libel).

What are the potential consequences of defamation in South Africa?

The consequences of defamation in South Africa can include legal action, financial penalties, and damage to one's reputation. Defamation can also result in civil lawsuits and criminal charges.

How can someone defend themselves against a defamation claim?

In South Africa, a person accused of defamation can defend themselves by proving that the statement is true, that it was made in the public interest, or that it constitutes fair comment. It is important to seek legal advice to determine the best defense strategy.

Can an apology mitigate the effects of defamation?

An apology can sometimes mitigate the effects of defamation, especially if it is sincere and issued promptly. However, an apology does not automatically absolve someone of liability for defamation in South Africa.

Is it possible to remove defamatory content from the internet in South Africa?

In South Africa, it can be challenging to remove defamatory content from the internet, especially if it has been widely circulated. Legal action may be necessary to compel website owners or social media platforms to remove the content.

Additional Resources

If you need legal advice on defamation in South Africa, you may consider contacting the Legal Aid South Africa for assistance. The South African Human Rights Commission can also provide guidance on defamation issues.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with a defamation matter in South Africa, it is advisable to consult with an experienced defamation lawyer. They can assess your case, provide legal advice, and represent you in court if necessary. Remember to act promptly, as there are time limits for filing defamation claims in South Africa.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in South Africa through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Defamation, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in South Africa - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.