The Difference Between Libel and Slander

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(Newswire.net — January 6, 2021) —

Having someone spread rumors about you is never fun. However, it may break the law if what the person is saying is not true and is harming your reputation.

Furthermore, it may fall into a couple of different categories depending on the details of the situation. Any situation where one person harms another person by spreading false information is defamation, but defamation may be libel or slander. The distinction is important to know.

Libel Explained

Libel is a form of defamation involving the spreading of falsehoods through writing or other physical communication, according to the Legal Information Institute. With libel, you have a physical manifestation of what the person said and can show how the person spread the information. This can make it easier to prove your case in court.

Slander Explained

Slander is the type of defamation that involves spoken words. This might be a rumor or gossip someone is spreading. Slander is a little more difficult to prove because you don’t have physical evidence of it unless you happen to record the person saying it. However, this can bring about additional issues since some states do not allow recording someone without their knowledge, and having someone say something slanderous on recording won’t be easy.

Important Points

For any type of defamation, you will have to prove several things to the court. This is not always easy and you may want to work with someone who understands this area of law, such as John Branca.  

The court will require you that prove your case if you wish to receive compensation from the other party. Proof of your claim includes showing that the person said or published something about you that was false and hurtful to your reputation.

You must prove that the person shared this information with others. It is a requirement to show how the sharing of the information harmed you and caused you damages for which you seek compensation.

Final Words

Libel and slander can be tough to prove because there is protection under the U.S. Constitution for free speech. The courts have also made various rulings limiting your ability to seek compensation for defamation.  

However, there is still protection under the law. If you can gather the required proof, you may be able to stop someone from doing it while also collecting monetary compensation for any damages it caused to your reputation.