Can I sue for defamatory statements made by a witness under oath in a judicial proceeding?
Statements in a judicial proceeding are privileged. A judge, juror, lawyers, witnesses, or other parties are absolutely protected. For example, you are involved in an employment dispute with your former employer who lets it be known to everyone that you are a drunk and a thief, knowing that it is untrue. Your former employer can make this defamatory statement without being sued by you afterwards. Also protected are the remarks made by federal or state legislators in committee hearings or floor debates.
