Libel? I recently wrote a short post on Craigslist...

I recently wrote a short post on Craigslist under Rants and Raves about my strong dislike for a girl I used to work for. I didn't really curse or anything, but I without thinking, addressed her using her first and last name. I'm an idiot for that. I did not think she or anyone else would find it - it was merely a vent. I did this after getting numerous phone calls on my phone about "erotic services" and I assumed it was her or someone at my old office because they are bitter. I just moved here and do not know anyone else who would do that. They also failed to pay me for the hours I worked.

Now, when I quit this job, I first sent an email to this girl and CC'd it to the President and Vice President of the company, simply stating that I wanted to be transferred because I did not want to work for this particular girl anymore...she was extremely MEAN and rude and insulted me on a daily basis. It was very professional and I told her how I felt because of the way she treated me. There was no response so I then emailed her and CC'd everyone again and said I would return the key because I did not want to work for a company that condoned her behavior and refused to investigate my claims. There were no curse words or threats, just simply what she did to me, how she acted, and why I felt disrespected and did not care for her. After that, the emails stopped. I did not contact anyone. They posted a job listing again on a board and I wrote in response, "I did all of these things for you and but yet I was verbally abused on a daily basis .... you missed out..." There were no threats or cursing. I was very upset with the whole situation.

Well like I said, I never contacted this girl or sent any emails or even called my work. I did not even go there to get my things, I had them mail them to me. So after getting these perverted phone calls on my personal phone number, I wrote a posting that just said I did not like this girl. It was a rant. I did not think I was breaking the law. I got an email from someone with the company, who is her friend, a few hours later, being very nasty and angry and insulting me in every way possible. I responded saying I was sorry if I offended her and I would be happy to remove the name if she wanted and also that I did not appreciate her speaking to me in that way. I kept getting emails from her threatening me with legal action for "harassment" and "slander". I have a copy of the posting and also all of the email contact. No one was defamed in this or were caused any damage except a blow to their ego that someone disagrees with them. Can I really get into legal trouble for this? Could they file a restraining order even though the post was public and not directly to her, and that the first email I got was actually from the lady at the office? I did not contact her, she contacted me with an angry email. I did not make any threats or accuse anyone of anything. Just at worst, was insulting. is there any grounds for legal action on their part here?

[able1]

No. As you described it here they would have no successful legal action. You are allowed to give negative opinions. You just cannot say factually untrue things that damage one's image, reputation etc.