Defamation of Character & Harrasment

I live and work in California. For the past 4 1/2 years I have worked for the same company with a excellent track record. In October 99 I got a new boss and approx 5 months later he turned on me. He called a meeting and called me a liar in front of two of my co-workers. I then proved to him that I was not un-truthful by presenting e-mails, a third party witness, and documentation. However, the relationship has gone down hill ever since. He has talked about me to other co-workers in a demeaning fashion and has made it quite clear that he does not want me as an employee. My work environment has become extremely stressful to the point I found new employment. I did bring this matter to the attention of our Director and the head of HR well before this however, nothing was done. I was offered a matching salary and requested to stay, with the company, with the promise I could move into another position when one came available.

This person has lied to the Director about everything he has said and done and has down played the conflict. However, I have witnesses that if pushed would testify on my behalf on how he has been treating me and actual comments he has made about me to them. I have had one meeting with HR, our Director, and this person regarding the conflict however, I don't see this situation getting any better.

My question is if I had to, do I have legal grounds to sue him for defamation of character or is this kind of conduct not anything to legally act upon?

I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Some states prohibit defamation suits against employees/bosses. Check all of employment law and subsections at the freeadvice.com homepage.

You might have a constructive termination/intolerable condition claim.

Try attorneypages.com or call your state bar association. If you can substantiate his comments with those documents and emails you mentioned, you have a good chance to walk away with pride.