Tort Law

CASES OF INTEREST

Internet Libel Jurisdiction In Virginia

-- Libelous messages, accusing the Plaintiff of being a pedophile, posted to an internet newsgroup by a Texas defendant through an America Online account, and first posted on AOL USENET confers jurisdiction on the Virginia Courts since AOL USENET is located in Virginia, in addition a New Mexico Defendant who did not use AOL but advertised his own computer business on the internet is subject to Virginia jurisdiction under the long arm statute since the business solicitation is open to Virginia residents. Bochan vs. LaFontaine, VLW099-3-111 (USDC, Alex., Va. Rec No. 1:9cv1749, 05-26-99).