Dale v. Ohio Civil Service Employees Ass'n

In this case, we must determine what standard applies to a defamation claim founded on statements made in the course of a union election, and whether Dale may recover under the appropriate standard. For the reasons which follow, we conclude that an “actual malice” standard applies, and that Dale has not presented sufficient evidence to recover under this standard. Accordingly, we reverse the courts below and enter judgment for AFSCMEÍ7

I

Standard of Proof Required in Defamation Claims Arising From Statements Made ■ During Union Representation Elections Conducted Under SERB Jurisdiction

At common…