Navigating Defamation Lawsuits and Non-Compete Clauses with Keith Grumer, of Grumer Law

The topic of defamation has become more prevalent as civil discourse has eroded. Unfortunately, sometimes it is the rare board member and/or manager who has not been subject to some form of potential slander or libel throughout their course of community association service.

Host Donna DiMaggio Berger sits down with the highly respected litigator Keith Grumer of Grumer Law, to guide you through the complex legal terrain surrounding defamation as well as the ubiquitous non-compete clauses managers face throughout their careers. With their help, you'll learn the differences between libel and slander, understand statutory damages in cases of libel and slander per se, and identify crucial communication strategies to avoid potential legal disputes. Donna and Keith also tackle non-compete provisions, providing insights into how these clauses bind both management professionals and the communities they serve. 

 

Donna and Keith talk about the emotional toll board members often face when slander strikes. They examine alternatives to litigation, like the power of an apology. They also outline the critical distinction between opinion and accusation, helping board members discern when it’s time to defend their reputation and when it might be wiser to let cooler heads prevail.

 

Finally, they dive deep into the psychological battleground of legal disputes, offering practical advice to mitigate the stress and toxicity that often accompany them. Donna and Keith emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the power of community support to stay afloat during these trying times. With a thoughtful approach to litigation, they arm you with the tools for a resilient and strategic response to the challenges that come with defending your integrity in the face of adversity.

Conversation Highlights Include:

Various forms of defamationDifference between libel and slanderHow damages in a defamation claim are determined and recoveredDefenses to a defamation claim, including board members’ status as limited-purpose public figuresElements of a non-compete clause for community association managersNon-competes under Florida law vs. other statesPresident Biden’s proposed ban on non-competesAdvice for potential plaintiffs and defendantsBonus: Find out what the Blue Pencil Rule is!