Document background
A Defamation Demand Letter is a crucial legal instrument in Canadian law used when an individual or organization has been subject to false statements that damage their reputation. This document is typically employed as the first formal step in addressing defamation, before initiating court proceedings. It serves multiple purposes: formally documenting the defamatory statements, demanding specific remedial actions (such as retractions or apologies), and establishing a paper trail for potential future litigation. The letter must be carefully crafted to comply with both federal and provincial defamation laws, including relevant Libel and Slander Acts. It's particularly important to send this type of letter promptly, as most Canadian provinces have limitation periods for defamation claims, typically ranging from 2-6 years depending on the jurisdiction.
