Can a person be held responsible for defamatory statements made by someone else?

Yes, it is possible for a person to be held responsible for defamatory statements made by someone else. In North Carolina, any person who repeats or republishes a false and defamatory statement about another person can be held responsible for defamation. This is known as vicarious defamation liability. In order for a defendant to be held liable for repeating or republishing a defamatory statement made by someone else, a plaintiff must prove that the defendant knew, or should have known, that the statement was false and defamatory. Additionally, the defendant must have acted maliciously or with reckless disregard for the truth. In some cases, a defendant may be found liable for defamatory statements made by a third party on their own website or other online platform. This is known as "host liability." In these cases, the defendant may be held liable for the statements posted by a third party if they were aware of the statement and failed to remove it in a timely manner. Given the complex nature of defamation law in North Carolina, it is best to seek legal advice if you have any questions or concerns about the potential for defamation liability.

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Can a person be held responsible for defamatory statements made by someone else?

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