US celebrities 'sue in Britain for better chance of winning'

liable for libel

By Caroline Davies

(Filed: 09/08/2006)

American celebrities are choosing to sue newspapers for libel in British courts because they have a better chance of winning here than in the US, claim leading lawyers.

Legal experts say libel laws on this side of the Atlantic are much more favourable to claimants as malice does not have to be proved and there is no constitutional right to freedom of expression.

The actress Kate Hudson and pop singer Britney Spears are among the stars who have successfully pursued claims in the United Kingdom, helping to double the number of defamation cases heard in Britain last year . . .

Mr Benaim explained: "It is easier for US-based celebrities to sue for defamation in the English courts than in their own country as our libel laws are much more favourable to claimants. For instance, in the UK you do not have to prove malice as you do in America.

"Also, the right to freedom of expression is enshrined in the US constitution under the First Amendment, whereas here the right is more evenly balanced with the individual's right to their reputation. . . .