Does a plaintiff need to prove actual knowledge or reckless disregard in a libel case?

In Idaho, a plaintiff in a libel case must prove that the defendant had actual knowledge or reckless disregard for the truth. This means that the plaintiff must show that the defendant knew the statements he or she was making were false, or that the defendant acted with reckless disregard for the truth by not verifying the accuracy of the information. In Idaho, the plaintiff must also prove that the false statement caused them actual damages. This could be in the form of lost wages, personal humiliation, or other monetary losses. In addition, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant made the statement without legal privilege or reasonable grounds for believing it was true. Actual knowledge of falsehood means that the defendant was aware of the potentially false nature of the statement. Reckless disregard for truth occurs when the defendant was not aware that the statement was likely to be false but did not take the necessary steps to verify its accuracy, such as conducting research or interviewing witnesses. In Idaho, a plaintiff must prove that either the defendant had actual knowledge of the falsity of the statement or was in reckless disregard for truth when making the statement. If the plaintiff can meet this burden of proof, he or she may be entitled to damages in a libel case.

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