What is the difference between libel and slander?

Libel and slander are both types of defamation, which is defined as a false statement of fact that harms a person’s reputation. In Virginia, defamation is a civil wrong and can be subject to both criminal and civil penalties. Libel and slander are the two types of defamation, and they differ primarily in the way they are communicated. Libel is any statement made in writing, such as in a newspaper, magazine, or book, that is false and injures someone’s reputation. Libel is taken more seriously than slander, because it is seen as a permanent form of communication that can be easily shared and cannot easily be retracted. Slander is any false statement made verbally, like in a conversation or over the radio. Slander is seen as less serious than libel, because it is harder to prove and because it is seen as a temporary form of communication, as it can be heard but not seen or read by others. Because slander is more difficult to prove in court, Virginia has different standards for proving libel and slander. For libel, Virginia requires the claimant to show that the statement was false, and that the defendant made the statement with “actual malice,” meaning that the statement was made knowingly or with reckless disregard for its truth. For slander, the claimant must show that the statement was false, that it was made with actual malice, and that special damages, such as financial losses, were caused by the statement.

Related FAQs

Are there any defenses available to an employer against a defamation claim?
Is a person allowed to use the defense of fair comment in a defamation case?
Are statements made in an advertisement considered defamatory?
Are threats considered defamation?
What kind of proof is required to win a defamation lawsuit?
How do you respond to a cease and desist letter related to defamation?
Are there any restrictions on the content of a settlement agreement in a defamation case?
Is a person allowed to use the defense of good faith in a defamation lawsuit?
Can a person be sued for defamation if the statement was made in an email?
Is a person required to state a cause of action in a defamation lawsuit?

What is the difference between libel and slander?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts