was my character defamed?

[ninalou]

I live in PA.
I am 36yo. I am an only child.
My parents are getting divorced. My mother's atty wants to use me as a character witness in her case against my dad bc of abuse. I witnessed it.
His atty met with me once. We had a nice conversation. I made it clear that I wanted my parents divorce to be amicable. (They are both older, my mother doesnt' hate my father, she just doesn't want to live in fear.)
Since that time, my father's atty told my dad that I am mentally unstable. And that my father should consider that he no longer has a daughter. My father's atty also made the statement that I am mentally unstable to my mother's atty.

I do not know why he would make such a statement. I have a great job - am in a mgmt program. I own my own farm (soley) I have a business boarding horses outside of my profession. I am active in my township, I helped to implement a townwatch - & I am on the Zoning board. I am NOT on ANY medication whatsoever. I am concerned bc one of my first employers is his financial consultant. The financial industry is small. If word was spread that I was mentally unstable, I could lose my position. My employer probably wouldn't fire me, but would most likely demote me. I already lost my father, I can't lose my career too.

Do I have a case of defamation of character?

 

[JETX]

At this point, you have not been 'damaged' by any statements so do not have any grounds for action. And you don't know that you would even be damaged if anything were said.

I assume that your 'true nature' as shown by the activities noted in your post, would prevent anyone from believing any statement that could be made by another.

You might consider sending a letter to the attorney (or having another attorney send it), pointing out that you have heard from 'reliable sources' that he is spreading malicious and negligent 'rumors' about you that could cause you damage and that if he doesn't cease this fraudulent action, he could be held liable. That might at least help prevent or minimize any damage, and if needed, could bolster a cause of action if needed in the future. Do this professionally and respectfully, after all you want him to do your bidding, and not be further alienated.