What is considered a false statement in a defamation lawsuit?

In Oklahoma, a false statement is considered to be any statement that is false, either knowingly or recklessly made, and which tends to harm the reputation of the plaintiff. Typically, these statements involve accusations of criminal activity, immorality, or dishonesty. Defamation is typically broken down into two categories: libel and slander. Libel is an unwarranted and false attack or misrepresentation of a person, business, or organization that is made in written form, such as in a newspaper, magazine, or online. Slander, on the other hand, is the same as libel but is spoken and not written. As with all civil lawsuits, it is up to the plaintiff to prove that the defendant made a false statement with the intent of damaging the plaintiff’s reputation. A plaintiff can also prove that the defendant acted with reckless disregard for the truth or falsity of the statement. To prove this, the plaintiff must provide evidence that the defendant did not endeavor to discover the truth, or alternatively, that the truth was not of any concern to the defendant. In Oklahoma, a false statement is considered to be any statement that is false, either knowingly or recklessly made, and which tends to harm the reputation of the plaintiff. To successfully win a defamation lawsuit, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant made a false statement with the intent of damaging the plaintiff’s reputation and that the statement was made with disregard for the truth or falsity of the statement.

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