Defamation is a statement that injures a third party's reputation. The tort of defamation includes both libel (written statements) and slander (spoken statements).

In an action for defamation per se the law recognizes that certain false statements are so damaging that they create a presumption of injury to the plaintiff's reputation, allowing a defamation case to proceed …

Dec 3, 2024 · Learn about the legal definition of defamation, possible defenses, and how to sue. Libel and slander are two types of defamation. Libel includes written or pictorial defamatory statements. …

Oct 10, 2025 · Learn what defamation means under U.S. law — full definition, examples, types (libel & slander), and key defenses explained in simple terms.

Mar 19, 2026 · Defamation, in law, the act of communicating to a third party false statements about a person that result in damage to that person’s reputation. The concept encompasses libel, or …

Mar 15, 2026 · Defamation and opinion sit at the intersection of free speech and personal reputation. This article explains how the law treats statements as defamation or protected opinion, and what that …

The Core Principle: Defamation is the act of communicating a false statement to a third party that injures another person's reputation. It is a civil wrong, or tort, not a crime in most modern contexts.

May 1, 2025 · What is the legal definition of defamation? This comprehensive guide explains what qualifies as libel or slander, the five legal elements of defamation, and what statements the law …

Defamation is false statements that harm someone’s reputation. Each state defines defamation in its own way, but they must be sure to be consistent with what courts have ruled is in line with the First …

Defamation Any intentional false communication, either written or spoken, that harms a person's reputation; decreases the respect, regard, or confidence in which a person is held; or induces …