Book review on Amazon results in libel allegations

Vaughan Jones, aged 28, is currently defending himself in the High Court against libel allegations over a book review he wrote on the Amazon website last year.

The case was brought by Chris McGrath, who wrote and self-published a book called "The Attempted Murder of God: Hidden Science You Really Need to Know" under the pseudonym 'Scrooby'. In September and October 2010 Mr Jones wrote a number of negative reviews about the book and also exposed Mr McGrath as the author.

The case has been criticised by Libel reform campaigners as highlighting how claimants are favoured by Britain's defamation laws, and how the current laws prohibit debate because of fear over costly legal battles.

Gilbert Nesbitt, Senior Partner at Wilson Nesbitt in Northern Ireland, commented:

"This case highlights once again the dangers of posting comments on the internet. Until now most libel cases have involved social media sites such as facebook and twitter, and this case could potentially drag the internet even further into the spotlight for future court action. Users of Amazon, and other online retail sites, are regularly offered the ability to post their reviews of a book or any other article sold by the retailer.

"These reviews are often a mixture of good, average and bad. The outcome of this case could change how online reviews are posted and could certainly put the public at large in the firing line of disgruntled authors and company owners."

If you live in Northern Ireland and have been the victim of a defamation of character, whether by libel or slander, contact Wilson Nesbitt solicitors in Belfast or Bangor for legal advice by email at litigation@wilson-nesbitt.co.uk .

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