Willoughby Doyle handles claims on behalf of individuals who have been the victims of libel and/or slander. Oftentimes, the media publishes untrue and defamatory statements about members of the public which cause irreparable damage. The law of the First Amendment is complicated and media defendants have powerful defenses. Some states have pre-suit notice requirements and require a prospective plaintiff to allow a media defendant to issue a retraction prior to filing suit. As a result of this minefield of both federal and state laws, it is important to hire lawyers who are knowledgeable and experienced in the area of the First Amendment and Media law.

One of our partners was formerly First Amendment Counsel for an ABC television affiliate where he counseled investigative reporters on the intricacies of the First Amendment and the law of defamation. He also has successfully litigated numerous defamation claims brought against governmental entities and officials. The Firm utilizes this technical expertise in representing individuals in defamation claims against media defendants, governmental entities and actors, private individuals, and corporations.

In addition to handling defamation claims, the Firm represents individuals and companies in First Amendment claims against public entities on issues of freedom of speech and the constitutionality of government regulations, including the constitutionality of sign ordinances. The Firm’s lawyers have litigated these types of claims in the past on behalf of governmental entities which have resulted in published and unpublished opinions on these complex constitutional law issues.