Talking about Realtor reviews
We’ve been talking a lot about Realtor ratings sites the past few years and how Realtors should be aware of them, how they work and which ones are good (and which ones are scams).
This week, a doctor filed suit for negative comments published online (click the link for full details, we won’t get into opining on this active litigation, rather the concept and basics of the lawsuit).
The doctor alleges that a patient’s son was displeased with his bedside manner (calling him a “tool” online) and his lawyer said, “The basis for the lawsuit is the defamatory statements that were made on websites and to other sources. The purpose of the lawsuit is to prevent defamation being made on the websites and through other sources.”
Defense’s counsel claims that when the doctor contacted his client, the posts were voluntarily removed but the doctor is pursuing damages in the amount of $50,000 regardless. Defense counsel said, “I think it’s an unfortunate incident of someone attempting to punish a person who has spoken out of concern for a family member.”
Can you sue over negative reviews?
In theory, if a lawsuit is won claiming negative reviews hurt a person’s business, wouldn’t there be a counterpoint that reviewers could sue for publishing positive reviews that help a person’s business? Couldn’t they sue for their share of profits if someone can sue for negative profits?
Our opinion is that anyone can sue for anything, but it has to have merit. That is not to say whether or not the aforementioned lawsuit has merit, it is to say that of course you can sue, but winning is another question altogether. We await a ruling on this case to determine whether or not precedent is set for this emerging sector of ratings and review websites.
How have you handled any negative reviews online?
