What Types of Cases Do We Accept & Turn Down?

For victims of internet defamation, online harassment, and other internet privacy-related attacks, it can be difficult to know where to start when seeking legal representation. You may spend a significant amount of time researching or engaging a law firm, only to find out they are not the right fit for you or do not handle your specific internet-related issues.

At Minc Law, we pride ourselves on being as transparent as possible about the types of cases and clients we take on. We understand that the process of finding representation can be overwhelming, and we want to help make it as straightforward as possible.

In general, we provide legal representation, including litigation and non-litigation legal services, for the following internet-related matters:

• Internet defamation, including:
  • Fake consumer reviews,
  • Public social media defamation,
  • False content and posts on blogs and forums,
  • #Metoo defense and defamation defense litigation.
• Online content removal matters for:
  • Adult content and revenge porn,
  • News articles,
  • Content on consumer complaint and shaming websites,
• Online extortion, sextortion, and other internet harassment, and
• Domain squatting and online copyright infringement issues.

The following are matters and cases that we generally do not provide legal representation for in most cases:

• Lawsuits against third-party platforms (e.g., Google, Facebook, the media, court record sites),
• Defamation that did not occur online (outside the state of Ohio),
• Texts or email defamation outside of Ohio,
• Cyberbullying and hacking issues,
• Investigative services related to finding content online that may or may not exist,
• Criminal matters, and
• Lawsuits filed outside of the U.S. (unless engaged as a consultant)

Our firm values transparency, so we want to help you decide on the right fit for your needs before picking up the phone. If we are not the right fit for you, we will be honest about that too. We want you to find the best possible legal representation, even if it is not us.

Types of Cases & Clients We Do Accept

While there are some types of cases and clients we cannot help, there are many internet-related services we do provide at Minc Law.

Below is a brief background on the types of matters with which we can assist and provide legal representation.

Internet Defamation Matters

Defamatory Online Business Reviews

Online reviews can make or break a business. Consumers regularly research a business’ online profile to evaluate whether the company’s services will be a good fit for their needs. Having a fake or disparaging review can turn potential customers away, which is why our firm assists with removing defamatory online reviews.

Our firm does not typically go through the platform (e.g., Google, Yelp, or Zillow) to get damaging reviews taken down. Instead, we seek out the individual who wrote the review to have them remove the defamatory content. Like social media or blog content, our attorneys can assist regardless of whether the review was authored by a known individual or an anonymous poster.

Public Social Media Defamation

Social media allows us to connect with people from all corners of the globe with just a few clicks. While this can be a wonderful thing, it also means that a single disparaging comment or post can have devastating effects on someone’s reputation. With the ubiquity of social media in today’s day and age, social media defamation is a natural and common byproduct.

At Minc Law, we understand the importance of maintaining a positive online presence. That is why our attorneys work tirelessly to get damaging content removed from popular social media online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and more.

In many cases, we can resolve these matters by dealing directly with the source of the unwanted content: the author. Depending on the circumstances, we typically send a demand letter to the author of the content in lieu of further legal action. We also have extensive experience navigating social media platform reporting and flagging procedures.

In addition to damaging and defamatory content, social media platforms are ripe with impersonation accounts. Accounts taking on the identity of someone else to humiliate the subject or scam their followers have become extremely common. Fortunately, our Digital Risk Protection service has proven success identifying these fraudulent accounts and getting them down!

Defamation on Forums or Blogs

Much like social media platforms, online blogs and forums are well known for facilitating self-expression and public debate. Defamatory attacks, however, can be highly problematic on these sites. Platforms like Medium.com and Blogger.com, have been easily accessible places for people to write about their ideas and opinions. Unfortunately, these sites have also been known to host false and damaging claims about individuals as well.

Regardless of whether the person behind the post is anonymous or known, our attorneys have a strategy to get the content taken down and stop the harassment.

Online Content Removal Issues

Adult Content & Revenge Porn Removal

Our firm has extensive experience and success removing adult content from a variety of adult websites such as XVideos.com, YouPorn.com, PornHub.com, XHamster.com, and more. We also have proven experience assisting victims of revenge porn and removing intimate images, videos, and media from popular revenge porn websites.

We pride ourselves on handling our clients’ matters discretely and quickly to get intimate content off of the internet.

News Article Removal

In the United States, the media is granted various privileges under the First Amendment, allowing them to report on events considered matters of public interest. However, there are times when the online preservation of certain events may prevent people from moving on with their lives.

Our attorneys have proven success removing unwanted and damaging news articles from the internet through de-indexing or editorial requests.

Content Removal From Complaint & Shaming Sites

We have all heard of them. From TheDirty.com to ShesaHomewrecker.com, no one wants to end up on a complaint or shaming website. Such websites are typically classified as ‘Guaranteed Removals’ since we have extensively (and regularly) removed content from them in the past.

We charge a flat-fee to remove unwanted content from countless websites and refund a portion of the fee for any content we are unable to remove. If you or someone you know needs assistance navigating this process, Minc Law is here to help.

Online Extortion, Sextortion, & Internet Harassment

Most people have heard of or even used dating apps like Tinder or Bumble to make a romantic or sexual connection. Some people have even successfully used social media sites to meet their partners. An unfortunate side-effect of these platforms has been the proliferation of online extortion and sextortion.

If you or someone you know is being blackmailed into sending money in exchange for keeping explicit or sensitive content private, we can help.

Our experienced team of attorneys has extensive experience identifying common sextortion scams, taking control of the communications with the perpetrator, and preventing the release of intimate images and media. We can also help stop the harassment and extortion for good and monitor the internet for subsequent digital threats and attacks.

Domain Squatting

When building an online brand, choosing a domain name and cultivating a positive internet presence are both critical steps. Whether you use your name or a unique company name, it is essential to have online recognition for your brand.

If an individual or competitor registers your brand or name as their domain and profits off of the usage, they may be domain squatting. Our attorneys have ample experience filing trademark infringement lawsuits and Uniform Domain-Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) actions, and pursuing recovery options, to help individuals and businesses reclaim their rightful domain names.

Online Copyright Infringement

Whether it is an image, YouTube video, blog post, article, or even a social media update, the media you put out into the world are a reflection of your brand. That is why it is important to ensure that your content is uniquely yours. Unfortunately, there are those who take advantage of your hard work by using your content without permission. If this happens, you may be able to take legal action for copyright infringement.

One tool our attorneys have had success with is a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) notice. A DMCA takedown notice provides a mechanism for copyright holders to request that infringing content be removed from online platforms. If you are worried about someone using your content without your permission, do not hesitate to reach out. We can help protect your online presence and compel the removal of copied content and media.

Types of Cases & Clients We Turn Down

To provide the most effective service to our clients, we are selective with the cases we take on. There are certain services we are simply unable to provide. In the interests of transparency and helping you find sound and zealous legal representation, we have laid out below the cases we do not typically accept.

If you have a case that falls into one of these categories, please review the “Resources for Cases & Clients We Are Not the Right Fit For” section of this page for further information.

Lawsuits Against Specific Platforms, Websites, & Defendants

Lawsuits Against Third-Party Platforms

A common question we get at Minc Law is, “Someone made a defamatory post about me on Google; can I sue Google?”. The answer is no – unless one of several narrow exceptions applies.

While you may be able to hold the individual that created the content accountable and take action against them, Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act protects online platforms from being held responsible for the content posted by third-party users. Therefore, Minc Law cannot take on lawsuits against platforms like Google, Instagram, Facebook, or Yelp.

We may, however, be able to assist with an action against the individual that posted the defamatory post(s) and material.

Lawsuits Against the Media (excepting public figures) or Court Record Sites

As a society, we value the ability to ascertain information about important and relevant events. It is for this reason that media publications, as well as sites that attempt to preserve public records, are afforded special privileges and rights.

As a result, unless you are a public figure with a very clear-cut case of wrongdoing that has occurred, Minc Law does not generally take on lawsuits against media outlets or court record websites.

Lawsuits Outside of the United States

United States defamation and internet laws are distinct from the laws in other countries and each state requires an attorney to hold a license to practice law in that area. Similarly, countries outside the U.S. require that attorneys have a license to practice in their jurisdiction.

While our firm may be able to try and pursue legal action against a citizen of another country, it may not be enforceable. If you are looking to sue a person outside of the U.S., it is best to retain a licensed attorney in that country.

That being said, our firm has had experience representing clients who are currently outside of the U.S. pursuing action against a U.S.-based individual. The important component to think about is where the potential defendant is located. If it’s in the U.S, we may be able to help. If the individual is in another country, it’s usually best to find an attorney there.

Certain Types of Defamation

Defamation That Occurred Offline (Unless the client is in Ohio)

At Minc Law, we are well-versed in online defamation law. For this reason, our firm primarily handles defamation that occurs on online platforms. This may include social media sites, blog postings, review platforms, and popular internet apps.

However, correspondence via text message, direct message, or email does not typically fall under the scope of “internet defamation.” If your defamation matter occurred over a private message, in person, or through a physical letter, then our firm may not be the best fit to assist.

Defamatory Texts or Emails (Unless the client is in Ohio)

While text messages and emails may be transmitted on digital devices, they are not generally considered “online.” Therefore these types of correspondences are more fittingly handled by a general civil attorney.

However, we can assist victims of text or email defamation in Ohio. Our attorneys are licensed in Ohio, making these types of cases more cost-effective for in-state clients.

Cyberbullying & Hacking Issues

Our firm is primarily focused on internet defamation and online privacy matters; therefore, we are likely not the best fit to handle online cyberbullying. Similarly, our firm does not have the digital forensics capability to assist with hacking issues.

Investigative Services to Find Online Content

Minc Law is dedicated to content removal and pursuing legal action against individuals who have curated and posted defamatory content on the internet.

In order to ensure that a matter is handled efficiently, we request that all content that potential clients are hoping to have removed be provided during the initial intake process. This can decrease costs and ensure that our firm is the best fit to handle a matter all the way through. Instead, we require that clients provide the content to us for review to see if we are a good fit.

Criminal Matters

Criminal and civil laws are very different not only in terms of their consequences but also in their procedures. Minc Law is a law firm that handles civil law matters and wrongs that do not typically lead to incarceration for the perpetrator. Our attorneys are not able to assist individuals in pressing criminal charges.

Resources For Cases & Clients We Are Not the Right Fit For

It is important to realize that not every law firm will be the right fit for you and your particular legal issue. Even if we are not the right firm for you, we still want to provide you with some information to help you find the right one.

Below, we provide information and resources to help you find an attorney who may be able to handle your legal matter. We also recommend checking out our other resources on this topic, “What to Look For When Hiring a Defamation Lawyer” and “Hiring a Defamation Lawsuit Attorney.”

There are some very important questions to ask to ensure you get the best representation for your matter when selecting a lawyer. Some questions we recommend asking include:

• Do you provide a free consultation? If not, what is the cost for one?
• How long have you been practicing law?
• How much experience do you have with these types of matters?
• What is your track record of success?
• Have you ever been the subject of disciplinary action?
• What are your fees, and how are they structured?
• How often will I be billed?
• How will you inform me of developments in my case?

Attorney Directories

Online attorney directories like Avvo, Lawyers.com, and Super Lawyers are an excellent resource for finding qualified attorneys in your area.

Also, feel free to check out our list of top internet defamation lawyers in the United States for some of the most highly-respected attorneys in the field of internet defamation.

Google Search

Google is an incredible research tool, and finding legal assistance is no exception. Google can provide a wide array of attorneys from varying practice areas and locations.

Simply search for an attorney that matches your matter, such as “Slander Attorney Ohio.”

Your Local Bar Association or Legal Aid Society

Most counties and states have a local bar association that can connect you with licensed attorneys near you. Likewise, many jurisdictions have a legal aid office that can put you in touch with free or low-cost attorneys if you qualify for their assistance.

We recommend navigating to the American Bar Association’s website to find your local bar association.

Referrals From Family and Friends

Whether your matter is common or unique, it is vital to seek help from a trustworthy attorney. Referrals from family members and friends ensure that the lawyer you are contacting has already proven trustworthiness and competency with someone you know personally.

Online Reputation Management or Content Removal Companies

If you are looking for suppression or quick removal of non-defamatory content, online reputation management or content removal companies may be the better option. Like all services, it is important to do your research on a company before engaging them: Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau are great places to start finding testimonials from prior clients.

Video: How Suppression Can Help You Take Control of Your Online Reputation

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If I Am the Right Fit For Your Services, How Do I Get Started?

If you think that Minc Law may be a good fit for your case, the best way to reach out to our team is by either calling our office at (216) 373-7706, speaking with a Chat representative, or filling out our online form. When you call or submit an online form, you will be connected with an intake representative. This person will require initial information about your matter and evaluate how our firm can help you.

If we are able to take on your defamation issue, they will connect you with a paralegal. The paralegal will answer more in-depth questions and get you scheduled for your attorney consultation. The consultation is where we will hear the specifics of your case and determine how we can best help you move forward. By the end of your consultation, we will ensure you clearly understand your legal options.

If you are dealing with an extortion or sextortion matter, then your intake will look a little different. After contacting our firm, we will send you over a consult sheet and try and get you to speak with an attorney the same day. These consultations do have a fee of $500.00 as we receive a high volume of these matters and our attorneys make themselves available quickly.

For more information, check out our article, “Thinking About Contacting Minc Law? Here’s What to Expect.”

What Type of Information Should I Provide Minc Law?

During your initial, no-obligation consultation with our intake team, we will need to gather specific information about your case.

In general, potential clients need to be prepared to provide the following information:

• Your full name and relevant contact information (phone number and email);
• Evidence of the defamatory or damaging content, such as screenshots or direct links;
• An overview of the matter to provide context to the problematic content;
• A description of your ultimate goals to evaluate what the best strategy may be and to provide an accurate retainer estimate;
• Specific questions about our process;
• An estimated budget for legal services.

What Are the Average Costs For My Internet-Related Issue?

It would be convenient if we could simply tell our clients that their legal matter will cost X amount of dollars and be done in X number of weeks. However, accurate price and cost estimates for legal services are not always so simple to provide. This is because every client’s legal matter is unique. There are dozens of factors that can significantly affect the costs of a legal matter.

For example, the opposing party in a lawsuit may be uncooperative or unresponsive, prolonging necessary work and driving up costs. Or, unforeseen circumstances may arise that require additional work that was not originally anticipated.

As a result, it can be challenging to provide specific cost estimates for legal services. However, with experience comes the ability to more accurately predict the costs of a legal matter based on individual facts and circumstances.

Generally speaking, our cost of services falls in the following ranges:

• Non-litigation matters: Retainers begin at $4,500 (for news articles, this is a minimum retainer and therefore is not refundable).
• Litigation: Retainers begin at $8,500. Ohio matters typically begin with a retainer of $5,000.
• Guaranteed removals: Cost will vary depending on the site and the number of posts you want to have removed. Typically, our costs range between $2,500–$10,000. These are flat fees, and the service is guaranteed. If we do not remove the content, you will receive your money back for the portion of content we were unable to remove.
• Sextortion: Our initial attorney consultation has a fee of $500.00, and there is a minimum retainer of $3,500, which is not refundable.

For further information on potential costs, we recommend reading our comprehensive Pricing Page and resource explaining how much a defamation lawsuit costs.

Video: Cost of Minc Law’s Internet Defamation & Online Reputation Services

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Why Should I Choose Minc Law?

Internet defamation is a complex and ever-changing area of law that requires specialized knowledge and experience to navigate. At Minc Law, we are proud to be one of the few firms in the country that focus exclusively on online defamation and content removal. Our attorneys have unmatched experience in this field, and we have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of online defamation matters.

We also understand that our clients entrust us with a very important part of their lives. We take this trust very seriously, and we are committed to being as loyal and transparent as possible. You can expect an honest assessment of your matter and a consistent flow of communication from our firm to you. We believe that this is the best way to ensure that you get the best possible representation.

Our goal is to obtain the best possible outcome for you, and we will work tirelessly to achieve that goal.

To learn more about what sets our firm apart from others, check out our article, “5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Minc Law.”

Frequently Asked Questions About the Types of Cases & Clients We Do Represent

Can a Minc Law Attorney Help Me If I am Located in Another State or Country?

We understand that our clients come from various backgrounds and locations. For this reason, we are proud to offer representation to individuals from across the United States and around the world.

For non-litigation matters, location is not a problem at all. Even for litigation matters, our firm can still represent you. Many of our attorneys are licensed in different states, and if a member of our team is not licensed in your state, we will work with an attorney who is. In fact, we work with local counsel in most litigation matters. This allows us to provide the best possible representation to our clients no matter where they are located.

For further reading, we recommend checking out our comprehensive resource ‘Can an attorney in another state represent me?’

What Counts as “Online?”

Defamation that is “online” generally refers to content that is publicly accessible through a URL. This could include content on social media, blogs, or online review platforms. Private chats, text messages, or email communications do not typically count as “online” defamation.

Our firm focuses on representing clients who have been defamed online in a way that is widely accessible to the public. If you have been the victim of online defamation, we can help you take legal action to hold the responsible party accountable and protect your reputation.

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Defamation?

The short answer is yes. There is a statute of limitations (SOL) for defamation in every state; however, the length varies from state to state. In many states, the statute of limitations for defamation claims is one year. However, the SOL can be as long as 2-3 years in a select few states.

For further frequently asked questions, we recommend reading our comprehensive resource ‘Top FAQs About Internet Defamation Lawyers’.

★★★★★

“Obtaining this legal representation saved our buisness. Minc Law represented and defended us against defamation so our customers didn’t have to. Minc Law gave us a voice and Daniel Powell made sure we were heard and considered in each part of the process. He also provided practical advice that helped us avoid a snowball effect, and added a human element while dealing with social media organizations.”

JH
April 11, 2022

If you are a victim of defamation and have further questions about your situation and want to learn more about your options, reach out today to schedule your free, initial no-obligation consultation with our intake team by contacting a chat representative, filling out our contact form, or calling us at (216) 373-7706.