Reputation Management & Defamation overview

A strong reputation is among the most valuable assets an individual or business can possess. In today's digital age, a single false accusation or unfair negative statement can cause immediate and lasting harm. What takes years to build can be damaged in moments with just a few keystrokes. We bring deep experience, on both offense and defense, in addressing the legal and strategic challenges these matters present, delivering practical, coordinated and effective solutions for our clients.

Our experienced White & Case team represents leading companies, nonprofit organizations, and individuals in the prosecution and defense of defamation matters, and in the protection of brands and reputations. Having successfully advised and represented prominent businesses, professional athletes, philanthropists, Nobel laureates and A-list celebrities, our team has a proven record of swift action, sound judgment and strategic advocacy, both in advancing meritorious claims and defeating those without foundation.

In an era marked by widespread online misinformation, AI-generated falsehoods and weaponized media outreach, competitors, customers and third parties increasingly deploy unfair negative statements and false accusations to inflict serious reputational harm. Other times they cry foul without basis. These matters frequently span jurisdictions and regulatory regimes and may involve both civil and criminal exposure. In every instance, we safeguard brands and reputations by guiding clients through the complex legal, strategic, and reputational challenges these disputes present.

Reputation Management & Defamation experience

MLB Players, Inc. v. Underdog Sports, Inc., et al. Successfully represented FanDuel in resolving MLB Players Inc. claims concerning alleged misappropriated the publicity rights of hundreds of MLB players.

Westwood College v. Estes (state court) – Successfully represented Westwood College in class action and pursued opposing counsel for defamatory statements about the client.

Costco Wholesale Corp. v. Victor's Canvassing, et al. (state court) – Obtained declaratory and injunctive relief for Costco against paid petitioners asserting First Amendment challenges to property-use rules.

Watson v. Elsaden (federal court) – Defended individual accused of making defamatory statements at a social gathering.

The Solomon Foundation v. CFR (federal court) – Successfully litigated on behalf of The Solomon Foundation after a competitor made defamatory comments to client and stakeholders.

Mai v. Elsaden (federal court) – Obtained dismissal of complaint alleging that client defamed the plaintiff.