I disagree in principle. Yes small or big I don’t think it necessarily makes a difference as to whether they can or should sue for defamation or libel.
When you sue, it all depends on what you hope to achieve.
When it’s reported, naturally the claims made by the defendant will also be repeated and essentially ‘spread further’
You also have to consider what it looks like when a well resourced company/director sues a less resourced public citizen. Is it economical to do so, can the public citizen afford even the legal costs? Do you actually stand to benefit or are you simply wanting to prove a point?)
Suing may make you look a tool, especially if the comments may be considered minor or even amusing. In general though, I’d say in the few instances Iv heard where posters on HotCopper have been taken to court, the plaintiffs look like wankers who are overreaching and who take themselves too seriously. I think a large portion of the population would also see it this way.
Plus the specific example was someone involved at AMG suing Burassa because amongst other things he accused one of the AMG employees/directors/shareholders (honestly can’t remember who he spoke about) of lying and being grossly incompetent. If Burassa was indeed taken to court and decided it would be funny or effective to defend himself on the grounds of truth - remember the plaintiff would have to prove Burassa knew the comments were false/malicious and what if the comments were semi defendable? It could be a disaster for the individual and company. It’s a very complex decision for the individual and company.
Let’s say for example the statement in question was when Geoff Kidd said we would get a Christmas present - did we get a Christmas present? It didn’t exactly happen did it? I think it would be fairly easy to find statements made by directors of AMG which would be similar examples of the above.
That’s just my opinion.
AMG Price at posting:
3.0¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held
(20min delay)