What do social networks, news sites, blogs, and newspapers have in common? In all of them, people disseminate vast amounts of content every day. Sometimes the content is intended to market a product or provide information, but in many cases the publisher directs their words against a person or group. Content that seeks to disparage, humiliate, or hold another person up to ridicule may be considered defamation. In this article we explain which legal proceedings you can take in order to stop the harm and demand justice.
Threshold Conditions: When Do Statements Become “Defamation”?
It is important to remember: in order for a cause of action to crystallize, the law requires the element of publication. Defamation is not only what is said, but what reached at least one person other than the injured party. A curse uttered in a private, closed conversation between two people, however serious it may be, will generally not be a cause of action under the law. We examine whether the message reached a third party – whether in a public post, in a WhatsApp group, or in a letter that was distributed.
Litigation Strategy: Comparing Legal Tracks
To achieve the best result, we tailor the type of proceeding to your goal:
| Type of proceeding | Main objective | Required burden of proof | Possible outcome |
| Civil proceeding | Monetary compensation and reputational rehabilitation | Balance of probabilities (above 51%) | Monetary damages and apology |
| Private criminal complaint | Punishment and deterrence | Beyond reasonable doubt | Criminal record, fine, or imprisonment |
| Warning letter | Stopping the damage and a quick resolution | No proof in court | Removal of the publication and savings on costs |
1. The Civil Legal Proceeding: Compensation Updated for 2026
This is the most common track. The purpose of the proceeding is to obtain monetary compensation for the damage caused to your good name.
Compensation amounts without proof of damage (updated for 2026): the amounts in the law are linked to the consumer price index and are updated each year. As of 2026:
- Standard statutory compensation: the court may award an amount of approximately NIS 80,000 (updated from time to time) even without proof of financial damage.
- Publication with malicious intent: if we prove that the publisher sought to harm you intentionally, the compensation may reach double the amount – approximately NIS 160,000.
2. Private Criminal Complaint: An Extreme Tool for Exceptional Cases
A private criminal complaint is a proceeding in which a private person “steps into the shoes of the State” and files an indictment. It is important to clarify: today the courts tend to greatly limit the use of this tool. We consider this track only in cases of particularly serious harm to public order or extreme and severe smears.
The Defendant’s Defenses: Not Every Publication Is “Easy Money”
As a leading firm, we are committed to managing realistic expectations. The defendant may raise defenses set out in the law (Sections 14–15):
- “Truth in publication”: if the statements are correct and there is real public interest in them.
- Expression of opinion in good faith: protection for legitimate criticism that does not exceed the reasonable.
In addition, we carefully examine every file to ensure it is not considered a “SLAPP” (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation). Filing a claim intended only to intimidate critics may lead to the imposition of heavy costs against the plaintiff.
Frequently Asked Questions – Defamation Proceedings
Can a civil and a criminal proceeding be filed in parallel?
The law permits this, but the courts sometimes tend to stay one proceeding pending a decision in the other in order to prevent contradictory decisions. We build for you the strategy combining the two as needed, in accordance with the severity of the case.
What happens if the publisher deletes the offensive post?
You can sue even after the publication has been deleted, since the initial damage has already been caused. It is important to document the publication (a screenshot showing the distribution, likes, and comments) before deletion in order to substantiate the evidence in the file.
Is sharing a post considered defamation?
Absolutely. Israeli courts have held that the act of sharing constitutes a republication. Therefore, even those who shared malicious statements without writing them themselves may be liable for compensation toward the injured party.
Why Choose Vaknin Yariv Law Office to Manage the Proceeding?
Vaknin Yariv Law Office specializes in protecting the reputation of professionals and businesses. The Labor Law and Defamation department is led by Adv. Miriam Kanaan-Masalha. We combine deep legal knowledge with experience on the international stage through our branches in New York and Tbilisi.
A meeting with Adv. Yariv Vaknin and the department’s team will help you decide on the right strategy. We represent you thoroughly and professionally at our offices in Afula and Bnei Brak (B.S.R 4).
Please note: the content on this site is for enrichment purposes only and constitutes general information. The information does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for binding advice.
Has malicious content been published against you? Are you considering legal steps? Leave your details on the site or call Adv. Yariv Vaknin now for an initial consultation: 052-2288824. We are here to protect your good name and your rights.
