Questions & Answers
Can a company sue me for an honest Google review about their services?
Dear Lawyers,
A cleaning company is threatening to sue me if I don’t take down my Google review. All I did was share my experience without using any curse words, insults, or specific names.
In my review, I wrote, "I saw the cleaner use the mop to clean the toilet; I’m not sure if it was the same one used on the floor. I was surprised and disgusted—that’s why I stopped using their services."
The company claims it’s baseless, clearly defamatory, and intended to harm their excellent corporate reputation. They’re now intimidating me to take it down.
Dear Questioner,
Thanks for your inquiry!
According to UAE law, making a negative review about a company or its services is not considered a criminal offense.
However, if the review contains false information or is intended to harm the reputation of the company, it may be considered defamation.
In your case, it seems that your review was based on your personal experience and did not contain any false information.
Therefore, it is unlikely that the cleaning company would have a strong case against you for defamation.
However, it is important to note that the UAE has strict laws against cybercrime and online defamation. If the cleaning company decides to pursue legal action against you.
In the meantime, you can consider editing your review to remove any potentially defamatory statements and stick to stating your personal experience. This may help to avoid any further legal action from the cleaning company.
It is also worth noting that companies in the UAE are required to have a valid trade license and adhere to certain standards and regulations.
If you have any concerns about the cleaning company's practices, you can report them to the relevant authorities for investigation.
In conclusion, while the cleaning company may threaten to sue you for your review, it is unlikely that they would have a strong case against you.
However, it is important to respond to their claims appropriately and seek legal advice if necessary.
Kindly do not hesitate to contact us via phone or email for further assistance.
Greetings,
Dear Questioner,
They have the right to file a complaint, but that doesn’t mean they are in the right. It will then depend on the police officer’s decision whether to close the complaint or forward it to the prosecution.
Therefore, it's best to delete the comment and settle the matter yourself.
Dear Questioner,
In many countries, including the UAE, people are generally free to share their experiences, particularly when it comes to honest feedback based on their personal interactions with a service or business.
Defamation laws are meant to prevent false statements that harm someone's reputation, but truthful statements, or opinions based on personal experiences, usually are protected.
You stated that you were "not sure" whether the mop used for the toilet was the same as the one used for the floor.
You expressed personal doubt and disgust, not a definitive, false statement. There's no indication of malice or deliberate intent to harm the business.
You simply shared your own opinion. Even if the company is threatening to sue, it doesn’t automatically mean they have a strong case.
Legal threats can often be a way to intimidate someone into removing their review, especially if they believe the review may not actually qualify as defamatory under the law.
However, if you're concerned about potential legal action or if the company is pressuring you, it may be wise to Edit or Remove the Review and politely respond to the Threat.
For further assistance, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
Dear Questioner,
Your review appears to be a truthful account of your experience. As long as your review is based on your genuine experience and does not contain any false or misleading information, it's unlikely to be considered defamatory.
Fair comment is a legal defense that allows people to express opinions on matters of public interest, even if those opinions are critical.
In the context of a review, your opinion about the cleaning service can be considered a fair comment, especially if it's based on your personal experience. You can respond to them in this way.
If you need further clarification, you may ask us.
Thank you for reaching out with your concern!
It is important to know that in cases involving potential defamation claims, the law generally protects honest and fair opinions, especially if you are sharing your truthful experience without false statements or malicious intent.
Based on what you described, your review seems to be an account of what you observed, which may fall under protected speech.
However, to ensure you are fully protected and to discuss the specifics of your situation, it would be best to consult directly.
I can advise you on your legal rights and any potential defense strategies if the company proceeds with legal action.
Please feel free to reach out to me on WhatsApp or phone so we can discuss your case further and outline the best course of action.
Best regards,
Suhail Rana
