Last week, I discussed Donald Trump’s threats to sue his critics and the possibility that when it came to actually filing such a suit, his lawyers’ overriding duties of professional responsibility becoming a restraining influence.

Even so, the threats themselves—like those Trump reiterated on Oct. 22 to sue any and all accusers who have or will come forward to confirm his boasts about being a sexual predator—could have a chilling impact. If an accuser with a truthful story remains quiet, Trump wins without firing a shot or paying a filing fee.