Libel
Candlefocus EditorLibel is an effective means of defaming an individual or entity. Libel is distinct from slander because it requires a permanent form of communication such as writing, publishing, or broadcasting the false statement. Libel is generally easier to prove in court than slander because it leaves a more concrete form of evidence, such as a book, newspaper article, or broadcast.
For defamation to qualify as libel rather than slander, the statement must be published. This means that the statement must reach a third party, whether through traditional media or through social media. If a person makes a false and defamatory statement to one person that is not seen, heard, or spread to others, it would not typically be libel.
Libel targets individuals, groups, or businesses by having a false statement spread to others, whether in print or electronically. Examples of libelous statements can include false reports of a criminal conviction, false accusations of poor performance in a profession, or implying that someone was involved in illegal activities.
Libel lawsuits can be costly, so in order to avoid claims of libel, it is important to ensure that any statement about another is true. Defamatory statements about public figures are subject to higher standards as well. In order to accurately assess whether a statement could be considered libel, one should first judge its accuracy and think about its potential impact on the reputation of the individual or entity, and whether it could be reasonably expected to cause material harm.