What is the difference between libel and slander?
Libel and slander are both types of defamation law. Defamation is when someone makes a false statement that damages a person’s reputation. Defamation law is designed to protect individuals from harm caused by false statements. Libel is defined as a written statement, or a statement that can be seen, which harms a person’s reputation. Libel usually takes the form of a printed article, blog post, or a tweet. In California, libel is a civil wrong and a person can sue for damages if their reputation has been harmed by a false statement. Slander is defined as a verbal statement, or a statement that is spoken, which harms a person’s reputation. Slander is more difficult to prove than libel since there is no written evidence to show a false statement has been made. In California, slander is also a civil wrong, and a person can sue for damages if their reputation has been harmed by a false verbal statement. Overall, the major difference between libel and slander is the type of statement made. Libel is a written statement and slander is a verbal statement. Both forms of defamation are illegal in California, and individuals can sue for damages if their reputation has been harmed by a false statement.
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