What kind of proof is required to win a defamation lawsuit?

In Arkansas, a plaintiff (the person suing) must provide proof to win a defamation lawsuit. This proof must meet certain criteria in order to be successful. First, the plaintiff must show that the defendant (the person being sued) made a false statement of fact and not an opinion. This false statement must have been made either to a third-party, such as to another person, or to a larger public. Additionally, the plaintiff must prove that the false statement of fact was made without reasonable care or that the defendant acted with actual malice. The plaintiff must also provide evidence of damages, typically meaning the proof of injury to their reputation caused by the false statement. This could be in the form of evidence that the plaintiff suffered economic losses from potential clients or employers due to a damaged reputation. Finally, the plaintiff must show that the false statement was made with the intention to harm the plaintiff or that the statement was made in reckless disregard of the harm it could cause. In sum, a plaintiff in an Arkansas defamation lawsuit must provide proof that the defendant made a false statement of fact, without reasonable care, that caused harm or injury to the plaintiff’s reputation, and with the intent to do so.

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What kind of proof is required to win a defamation lawsuit?

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