How do I stop online (facebook) defamation of my name?

The difficult thing about defamation law is that the First Amendment right to freedom of speech is very strong and it is almost impossible to get a gag order on someone.  What you can seek in these types of claims is monetary compensation for the damage incurred due to the false statements.  Ordinarily, getting slapped with a large judgment against them is going to shut most people up from making the same types of statements again.  If it does not, then you sue them again.  And again.  And you keep collecting monetary judgements against them to compensate you the injury to your reputation. Another hard part is showing the damage that was done and determining how much that is worth.  Certain types of defamation, such as those that are directly related to your ability to do your job, or that impugn a woman's sexual purity, or that falsely accuse you of a crime of moral turpitude, that is lying, cheating or stealing, are considering "defamation per se" and you don't have to show any actual damages.  It is assumed that such statements have harmed you and you can obtain a monetary judgment.  It does not answer the question of how much money you would be awarded - that would be up to the judge or jury.  The is also never any guarantee that you can collect on any judgment you receive. This answer is given in accordance with the laws of Virginia and may not be applicable in any other state.  It should not be construed as legal advice, as that would require a more thorough analysis of all of the facts involved in a specific case.  If you need further information or assistance, please feel free to contact my office for a consultation. Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case.