Determine whether the statement was false
Determine whether the statement was published to a third party
Determine whether the statement identified you
Determine whether the statement caused harm to your reputation
Determine whether the statement was presented as fact rather than opinion
Preserve all evidence, including screenshots, messages, emails, recordings, and witness names
Document dates, times, locations, and the impact on your reputation or finances
Review whether the statement is protected by privilege, opinion, or other legal defenses
Consult a defamation attorney in your jurisdiction
Send a cease-and-desist letter if appropriate
Demand a retraction, correction, or removal if appropriate
File a complaint in the proper court if settlement is not possible
Include the defamatory statements, the parties involved, and the damages claimed in the lawsuit
Serve the defendant according to court rules
Prepare to prove falsity, publication, identification, fault, and damages
Attend hearings, discovery, mediation, and trial as required
Seek remedies such as damages, injunctive relief, or a retraction if allowed by law