Attacking a Professional Reputation
September 2017
Wisconsin has certain categories of defamation that are considered defamation per se. In a defamation per se case, the person bringing the suit does not have to prove "harm" because it is clearly understood that the defamation is inherently damaging and the damages are presumed. A category that is considered defamation per se is attacking a person's professional character.
A defamation suit can either lead to a jury trial or a court trial. Wisconsin law provides for different types of damages for defamation cases. Those categories of damages include punitive damages, compensatory damages and distress.
Unlike a personal injury case, an attorney may decide not take a defamation case on a contingency fee arrangement.
At Herrick & Hart, we have represented those who have been injured or wronged since 1951. Our office is located next to the courthouse in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.