
defamation | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
Defamation is a statement that injures a third party's reputation. The tort of defamation includes both libel (written statements) and slander (spoken statements).
Libel, Slander, and Defamation Law: The Basics - FindLaw
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 in the U.S.: What Counts as Defamation and When You …
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.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
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 …
Defamation - Wikipedia
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 …
What Counts as Defamation? The Core Legal Elements
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 …
Libel vs. Slander vs. Defamation – How Are They Different? - Nolo
Sep 6, 2024 · If someone makes a false statement of fact about you that harms your reputation, you might be able to file a civil lawsuit against that person for defamation. Big picture-wise, there are two …
DEFAMATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
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.
Defamation Definition: Libel, Slander, and Legal Remedies
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 …
Understanding the Legal Definition of Defamation in U.S. Law
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 …