David Price - Our Practice

David Price is the author of "Defamation: Law, Procedure & Practice". It is a leading textbook in its field, which aims to demystify the law of defamation. It has been widely praised by lawyers, journalists and litigants. The third edition, co-authored with our practitioner Korieh Duodu, is now available directly from Sweet and Maxwell.

"The book's strength lies in the clarity of explanation on procedure and in its practical advice for those caught in the quagmire of defamation ....a hugely impressive book....Its legal and procedural analysis will be invaluable, not only to practitioners, but to journalists, broadcasters and publishers"
Press Gazette

"The foreword to this book was written by the late, great libel lawyer George Carman QC, loved by those in the security of the jury box, but feared by those in the witness box. Mr Carman was "happy to warmly recommend" the book. For the author and young pretender to the libel throne, this must be a treasured reminder of the silk many consider to have been the greatest ever libel barrister. Sentimentality aside, I am happy to follow in the footsteps of Mr Carman and warmly recommend this book.

Unusually for a defamation textbook, Mr Price's work does not stick to the letter of the law, but also hypothesises on procedural and practical considerations which should be of interest and of use to the practitioner. Indeed in his preface, he says he "seeks to provide a solid and clear exposition of the law" and "to reveal some of the tricks of the trade". That surely will be enough to send a number of defendant practitioners, who lock horns with Mr Price, out to buy the book…. It is the practical advice and assistance that makes this book different."
Law Society Gazette

The new edition can be ordered now from Sweet & Maxwell:-


		We act for a wide range of individuals (from ordinary members of the public to well known celebrities) and companies, large and small, who may find themselves the subject of unwanted media attention. In addition, we represent a number of publishers from national newspapers to satirical magazines. In contrast to other firms, we have made a conscious decision to strike a balance between representing claimants and defendants, on the basis that poachers make the best gamekeepers. We believe that the variety of our clients is one of our strengths.

		We are highly respected in the industry and known to be tenacious but not unreasonable. If you are taking on a large media outlet, such as a newspaper or broadcaster, you need some muscle on your side. Most large media companies have staff lawyers. We deal with them regularly and they know us. This is particularly important when matters have to be dealt with quickly. Similar considerations apply if you are a defendant in a media case - you need to decide quickly whether to fight or settle. Whatever choice you make, the fact that we are representing you will give added conviction to your position.

		Unlike other firms we do not have to instruct barristers to appear in court or to prepare court documentation. As a result, we can represent our clients from start to finish. Our clients find that this has a number of advantages. Firstly, we can move quickly without having to wait for a barrister's advice. If you are about to be the target of a defamatory attack, speed is essential. Secondly, we have a better all round view of the case. Thirdly, costs tends to be lower, but quality is never compromised. Fourthly, from the outset you will have direct contact with the lawyer who will represent you if your case comes to court.

		To many people the law is a maze, which benefits only lawyers. Our aim has always been to demystify it, so that we can help our clients understand what is happening and make informed decisions. From the moment you see us, we are thinking about not just the narrow legal considerations, but all aspects of your case, from public relations to esoteric points of law, from the newsroom to the courtroom. We aim to take into account everything that is important in reaching a successful outcome.

		David Price is the author of "Defamation: Law, Procedure & Practice". It is a leading textbook in its field, which aims to demystify the law of defamation. It has been widely praised by lawyers, journalists and litigants. The third edition, co-authored with our practitioner Korieh Duodu, is now available directly from Sweet and Maxwell. Reviews "The book's strength lies in the clarity of explanation on procedure and in its practical advice for those caught in the quagmire of defamation ....a hugely impressive book....Its legal and procedural analysis will be invaluable, not only to practitioners, but to journalists, broadcasters and publishers" Press Gazette "The foreword to this book was written by the late, great libel lawyer George Carman QC, loved by those in the security of the jury box, but feared by those in the witness box. Mr Carman was "happy to warmly recommend" the book. For the author and young pretender to the libel throne, this must be a treasured reminder of the silk many consider to have been the greatest ever libel barrister. Sentimentality aside, I am happy to follow in the footsteps of Mr Carman and warmly recommend this book. Unusually for a defamation textbook, Mr Price's work does not stick to the letter of the law, but also hypothesises on procedural and practical considerations which should be of interest and of use to the practitioner. Indeed in his preface, he says he "seeks to provide a solid and clear exposition of the law" and "to reveal some of the tricks of the trade". That surely will be enough to send a number of defendant practitioners, who lock horns with Mr Price, out to buy the book…. It is the practical advice and assistance that makes this book different." Law Society Gazette The new edition can be ordered now from Sweet & Maxwell:-