defamation / libel?

[archer61]

We live in Colorado, and up until three weeks ago my son was employed by a Texas company that has a branch here. He was fired without explanation at the same time his immediate supervisor was fired for alleged "misappropriation of funds". My son was given no explanation - just his final check and he was only told to clean out his desk. Since Colorado is an at-will state, we expected this to be the end of it. However, he has received a letter from this company as a "demand for payment" for various equipment "purchases" that "were" located at his personal residence.

This is the furthest from the truth. My son was not involved in any of these alleged activities, and no equipment was ever located at his residence. To the best of his knowledge all of this equipment was located at their shop when my son was dismissed. The company is threatening to pursue criminal charges - but how can they when he is not guilty of any wrongdoing (other than being friends with his boss)? Can they possibly make a "guilt by association" case stick?

We are considering retaining legal counsel to not only defend him but to pursue defamation of character restitution. We would be very interested in your thoughts!

Thank you!

 

[ccd]

Contact Phillip Ogden, Colorado Springs..................Attorney!

 

[seasco]

It is my experience that "defamation" will carry weight only if it is said in front of other people to hear it. Another way is that if a letter or some kind of correspondence is circulated stating the alleged incidents so that others are priveledged to see that as well. Otherwise, if it was only said to your son and he alone, and can't prove otherwise, there is no defamation. Hope this helps.