The First Amendment to the United States Constitution gives citizens freedom of speech and the right to petition the government for redress of grievances. A Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (“SLAPP”) is a civil action aimed at preventing citizens from exercising their First Amendment rights or punishing those who have done so. Fortunately, California’s “anti-SLAPP” statute protects people who get sued solely for exercising their rights. This statute requires SLAPP plaintiffs to demonstrate the merits of their case at the beginning of the litigation rather than at the end. This quick-and-efficient procedure saves innocent parties from having to defend against costly and frivolous lawsuits. The lawyers at Johnson & Weaver, LLP are experts in defending SLAPPs. If you’ve been sued for exercising your rights, please contact us today.