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. …

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 …

Oct 10, 2025 · Learn what defamation means under U.S. law — full definition, examples, types (libel & slander), and key defenses explained in simple terms.

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 …

Mar 19, 2026 · 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 …

Apr 1, 2026 · Learn what legally qualifies as defamation, from the four core elements and public figure standards to common defenses and how damages work.

The Core Principle: Defamation is the act of communicating a false statement to a third party that injures another person's reputation. It is a civil wrong, or tort, not a crime in most modern contexts.

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.

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 …