What kinds of statements constitute defamation?
Defamation is a type of personal injury law in which a person’s reputation is harmed due to false or misleading information that has been published about them. In California, false statements that are said, written, published, or broadcasted about a person, product, or company that can damage the reputation can be considered defamation. The main types of defamation are slander and libel. Slander is verbal communication, such as false statements that are spoken out loud. Libel is written communication, such as written false statements published in newspapers, magazines, websites, or other publications. Another type of statement that can constitute defamation is a statement that is incomplete and gives a false impression when it is viewed as a whole. In addition, statements will be considered false if they are exaggerated, are not based on fact, or are twisted to give a false impression. Finally, defamation can also include false accusations of criminal behavior. A false accusation of criminal activity can cause significant damage to a person or organization’s reputation and can be considered defamation. In California, the law is very clear that any false statements that are said, written, or broadcasted about a person, product, or company that can damage the reputation can be considered defamation. If a person or organization has been subject to these types of statements, they may wish to speak to an attorney to explore their legal options.
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