Intentional Torts

Defamation/Slander/Libel

Defamation, slander, and libel are characterized by making false, derogatory statement(s) in private or public about a person’s business practices, character, financial status, morals, or reputation. Oral defamation is a slander, whereas printed or published defamation is a libel. J. Murphy has handled many complex defamation cases and would love to hear from you about yours.

Assault

In civil law, assault is the act of placing someone else in reasonable apprehension of harmful or offensive contact with their person. For this reason, if you only “swing” at someone, intending to scare or intimidate them, but not intending to hit them, you are still liable if that other person is injured while dodging the physical assault that they assumed was coming. If something like this has happened to you, you have the right to sue for money damages, and you should. Call J. Murphy Firm.

Battery

In civil law, battery is the actual, intentional, harmful or offensive touching of another person in the absence of privilege or consent. It includes obvious things such as punching someone in the nose or hitting them with a stick. It also includes actions you might not expect, such as spiking someone’s drink. Battery is outrageous behavior and people who are victims of battery are usually entitled to punitive damages. Don’t hesitate to call J. Murphy Firm.