If you were fired for cheating, even though it is a personal matter to you, there is no law against airing your dirty linen in public. You cannot sue for defamation because truth is an absolute defense. You cannot sue for invasion of privacy because you have no privacy on this issue. The whole workplace knows. If a client asks what happened, the employer is allowed to, but is not required to, disclose the truth in this case.
The response given is not intended to create, nor does it create an ongoing duty to respond to questions. The response does not form an attorney-client relationship, nor is it intended to be anything other than the educated opinion of the author. It should not be relied upon as legal advice. The response given is based upon the limited facts provided by the person asking the question. To the extent additional or different facts exist, the response might possibly change. Attorney is licensed to practice law only in the State of California. Responses are based solely on California law unless stated otherwise.
Although the law of defamation may be slightly different in each state, generally truth is a defense. That means that if the statement made by your previous employer is true, then you would lose your case.
Defamation cases are tough and it is hard to say from the facts in your posting. I am linking you to a guide on defamation law below to help you decide whether or not to pursue this.
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This answer is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as, and does not constitute, legal advice. Laws vary widely from state to state. You should rely only on the advice given to you during a personal consultation by a local attorney who is thoroughly familiar with state laws and the area of practice in which your concern lies.
