Agriss v. Roadway Express, Inc.

Brief Fact Summary.

Agriss filed suit against his employer, Roadway Express, Inc. (Roadway), after his employer claimed that Agriss opened company mail in violation of company

Synopsis of Rule of Law.

A person who seeks to recover on libel need not prove special damages.

Facts.

Agriss filed suit against his employer, Roadway Express, Inc. (Roadway), after his employer claimed that Agriss opened company mail in violation of company policy. Although Agriss claimed the accusation was false, Agriss’ accusation spread. The trial court dismissed Agriss’ complaint.

Issue.

a person who seeks to recover on libel needs to prove special damages?

Held.

No. The judgment of the trial court is reversed. The plaintiff is entitled to recover once reputational damage is proven.

Discussion.

A person who seeks to recover on libel need not prove special damages. A person who seeks to recover on libel may can recover for any injury on his reputation.