As communication continues to transition to the online sphere, and bloggers and citizen journalists become increasing popular news sources, what are the implications for the cause of action and defamation? Recent case law, including the Ontario Court of Appeal decision in Baglow s. Smith, has failed to clearly resolve the issue as the courts continue to grapple with new technologies and online communication formats. Join our panel of experts to unravel the complexities, including:

• Where are we now? The current state of the law
• Who is the "reasonable reader" in light of the accessibility of online communications?
• What is the impact of context on a defamation claim? Is the standard different for online works? Is the standard different for different online formats? Is the standard different for different content?
• Navigating jurisdictional issues when publications can be downloaded and read anywhere
• How are interactive online forums and social media platforms changing the way we view defamation?
• Balancing freedom of speech and protection of reuputation
• Practical challenges in online defamation lawsuits, including service of anonymous defendants

Learn about the latest developments in the law of defamation in our increasing online world at this essential program.

PROGRAM CHAIR

Mark Donald, mf-law

SPEAKERS

David Potts, Barrister and Solicitor
Iris Fischer, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Brian Rogers,Barrister and Solicitor (Moderator)