What is Defamation?

Defamation is the publication of an untrue statement about another that subjects that individuals character or reputation to contempt or ridicule. 

Publication simply means that the untruthful statement was told or made known to at least one other person.

What is Required for a Defamation Action?

A Defamation Action requires two elements:

• A false statement about another person,
• Communicated to at least one other person, and
• Subjects that person to ridicule or disrepute. 

Individuals and businesses can sue for defamation. 

In business, false accusations of dishonesty or inability to pay one's debts frequently lead to defamation suits. 

Approximately one-third (1/3) of all defamation claims are brought by employees against present and former employers.

Types of Defamation

There are three general types of defamation:

• Slander - Slander is spoken or oral defamation.
• Libel - Libel is recorded defamation (i.e., written) or defamation over the television or radio.
• Disparagement - Disparagement is defamation of another person's trade or business prowess, product, or service.

Related Topics

• Tort Law (Intro)
• What are Torts?
• What are the types of torts?
• What are Intentional Torts?
• Unintentional Tort
• Assault and Battery?
• Intentional Infliction of Emotions Distress?
• Invasion of Privacy?
• False Imprisonment?
• Malicious Prosecution?
• Trespass?
• Conversion?
• Defamation?
• Defenses to Defamation?
• Absolute Privilege
• Defamation and 1st Amendment Considerations?
• Fraud?
• Intentional Interference with Contractual Relations?
• What is Negligence?
• Negligence A Duty of Care?
• Negligence Breach of Duty of Care?
• Causation?
• Cause-in-Fact
• What are common defenses to negligence actions?
• What is Strict Liability?
• Strict Liability Causes of Action Examples
• Strict Products Liability
• What defenses exist to strict product liability actions?
• Compensatory damages?
• Punitive damages?
• Treble Damages