On a wholely more practical basis than my earlier reply
From what Osok's said, my impression is that the damage has been done. I suspect that his specialism within the industry is, well, rather specialised and that everyone knows each other.

I think there are two aspects of this. One is look at where to go from here. If the damage has been done, then mud tends to stick (whether true or not) and it's probably time to move on and try something new. There's likely to be a financial impact, it'll be tough - but if the other option is trying to battle through the storm with no forseeable upside, it may be the best option.

The second part is to address the damage done by Mr. Deleted Name of Deleted PLC (I remember the actuals, but since it's been edited, let's go with this).
I'm making no judgements on the value of either side's story here, but if Mr Name has made malicious or misleading statements to other key people in the industry, then I believe that he has opened himself or his employer up to potential action.
So, have a think about what this has cost you - salary, bonuses, potential contract work, stress and anxiety, future earning, etc.? What evidence exists? Specifically, do you have any documentary evidence, has someone written this in an e-mail? Do you have any prior records (including thing such as references, performance appraisals, quotas and target achievements, etc.) which could be used to support a case? Would anybody be willing to support you if they were asked? Could any statements be made confidentially?
Gather as much information as you can and discuss with a lawyer - ideally someone who will work on a contingency basis, and who might be willing to consider taking this up ideally against the PLC.
If you take it up against the individual, it might be more satisfying, but ultimately will have a lesser impact. If you take it up against the company, then it's likely to be taken much more seriously, and may well have a more significant impact on Mr Name in the longer term.

For all the above, I am not a lawyer - but I know enough about keeping my mouth shut in certain circumstances so as not to get sued.

Whatever happens - good luck Osok, and while firearms may be fun, they're not (always) the best answer...
( Fireflier La la la la, not listening on, Thu 14 Aug 2008, 15:35, Reply)