Is a person allowed to use the defense of good faith in a defamation lawsuit?

Yes, a person is allowed to use the defense of good faith in a defamation lawsuit in Oklahoma. Good faith is a defense to a claim for defamation if the individual can show that the statement was made in the good faith belief that it was true and without malice. In Oklahoma, the person making the statement must prove that they had a reasonable basis for believing it was true and that the statement was not made with reckless disregard for the truth. In Oklahoma, the burden is on the plaintiff to prove that the statement was false and that the person making the statement either knew it was false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. An Oklahoma court may also consider the public interest in deciding whether a statement was made with good faith. For example, if the statement made was about a matter of public concern and was made with the public’s interest in mind, it is more likely that the court will find good faith. The defense of good faith can be difficult to prove in a defamation lawsuit in Oklahoma, so it is important for people who have been sued to consult with an experienced attorney to determine the best way to proceed. An attorney can help identify the strengths and weaknesses in the case and advise an individual on the best way to defend against the allegations.

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