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 · Defamation is a civil action that covers false statements that cause reputational harm. Learn about the legal definition of defamation, possible defenses, and how to sue.

In an action for defamation per se the law recognizes that certain false statements are so damaging that they create a presumption of injury to the plaintiff's reputation, allowing a defamation case to proceed …

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.

The meaning of DEFAMATION is the act of communicating false statements about a person that injure the reputation of that person : the act of defaming another; also : a communication that defames.

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.

Defamation is false statements that harm someone’s reputation. Each state defines defamation in its own way, but they must be sure to be consistent with what courts have ruled is in line with the First …

May 1, 2025 · In American jurisprudence, defamation refers to a false and damaging communication made to someone other than the subject, resulting in harm to the subject’s reputation. It’s a civil …

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 …

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.