My former employer is sabotaging my job efforts by giving negative job references to prospective employers. Can I sue for libel?

Generally, statements made by a former employer to inquiries from a prospective employer can be made without fear of being sued later. However, that protection is lost if there are any suggestions, inferences, innuendoes, etc. that would lead a prospective employer to believe something misleading or untruthful about the employee. The difficulty is proving that the statements were inaccurate and wrong. Sometimes you can avoid your former supervisor's input by specifically suggesting another person in management who can better recommend you. Also, many human resources departments give only neutral references, such as the date you started, the date you left, and your salary information.

If you believe you have been harmed by the libelous statements of a former employer, seek the advice of an experienced libel and slander attorney in your area.