My previous employer slandered my professional reputation 2 years ago. Can I still file a claim for defamation of character?

The statute of limitations for defamation of character actions differs by state, and in some cases by whether you committed libel or slander (i.e. by whether the statements were made orally or in writing). In Michigan, the statute of limitations for defamation in the form of either libel or slander is one year. Thus, if the statements were made several years ago, you may be unable to recover. However, each incident of libel or slander can constitute a separate instance, so if your former employer has made any statements in the previous year, you may be able to sue him for that instance of defamation. You should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who handles libel and slander cases in your area to find out what your options are and whether there are any actionable instances of defamation that do not fall outside the statute of limitations.