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Practice Areas • Practices • California’s Anti-SLAPP Statute

If someone sues you to punish you for speaking out on a public issue, you may be facing what’s called a SLAPP suit—short for “Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation.” California’s legislature recognized how dangerous these suits are to free speech and, in 1992, passed one of the nation’s strongest protections: the anti-SLAPP statute (Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 425.16–425.18).

Under § 425.16, if a lawsuit targets your speech or petition rights on a public issue, you can file a special motion to strike the claims within 60 days of being served. This stops discovery in its tracks unless a judge allows limited discovery for good cause. The court then follows a two-step process: first, you must show that the lawsuit arises from protected activity; second, the plaintiff must prove—through admissible evidence—a probability of winning. If they can’t, the court must dismiss the case and order them to pay your attorney’s fees.

There are limits. § 425.17 blocks anti-SLAPP motions in certain commercial or public-interest disputes. And § 425.18 gives you the right to file a “SLAPP‑back” lawsuit for damages against whoever hit you with the original SLAPP suit. This isn’t just theory—these provisions are used in real cases to stop bullies from misusing the courts.

If you think you’ve been targeted in California for speaking out, you may have only 60 days to act. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can protect your rights and seek to hold the other side accountable.

Contact Us

If you’re facing a SLAPP suit, you may contact The Chandra Law Firm LLC today. We’re ready to help you fight for your rights. Please understand that as a small firm, we are only able to handle on contingency fees cases in which the damages are relatively serious. Please submit with your contact form details about how you have been damaged economically, emotionally, or both, and information about what proof you would have to prove your claims and damages.

At Chandra Law, your case is our cause®.


Note: This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Please consult an attorney about your specific situation.

Making the right choice in legal representation can make the difference in whether you achieve a result that protects your legal rights and best interests.

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