This Texas Case Could Expand 3rd-Party Liability in Defamation Suits

What You Need to Know

• The Texas Supreme Court heard argument on questions from the Fifth Circuit that defendants claim could improperly expand defamation liability.
• The plaintiff identified as Jane Roe sued the president of a Baptist seminary, alleging he used third parties to say she lied about being raped.
• The Fifth Circuit said the viability of her claim depends on the Supreme Court's interpretation of the admissibility of specific statements for which no recording exists.