Defamation is a statement that injures a third party's reputation. The tort of defamation includes both libel (written statements) and slander (spoken statements).

Dec 3, 2024 · Learn about the legal definition of defamation, possible defenses, and how to sue. Libel and slander are two types of defamation. Libel includes written or pictorial defamatory statements. …

Defamation is a communication that injures a third party's reputation and causes a legally redressable injury. The precise legal definition of defamation varies from country to country. It is not necessarily …

Apr 3, 2025 · Learn what legally counts as defamation in the U.S., when you can sue, and how the “actual malice” standard works for public figures and private individuals.

Dec 26, 2025 · Defamation, in law, the act of communicating to a third party false statements about a person that result in damage to that person’s reputation. The concept encompasses libel, or …

Jul 5, 2025 · Defamation is a legal concept involving a false statement that injures a third party’s reputation. It is a civil wrong, known in law as a tort, not a criminal offense. This area of law …

Aug 4, 2025 · Defamation is a false statement presented as fact that harms a person's reputation; written defamation is libel, and spoken defamation is slander. Defamation laws vary by state, but …

Sep 11, 2025 · Defamation is a false statement presented as fact that causes harm to a person’s reputation. To succeed in a defamation lawsuit, the statement must be false, communicated to …

May 1, 2025 · What is the legal definition of defamation? This comprehensive guide explains what qualifies as libel or slander, the five legal elements of defamation, and what statements the law …

Not every negative or mean statement qualifies as defamation. For a statement to be legally defamatory, a plaintiff (the person claiming to be defamed) generally must prove certain elements.