Written defamation is called "libel," and spoken defamation is considered "slander," and they both fall under "defamation." In the US, defamation is not usually a crime. Instead, it is a "tort" or civil wrong. Under the law, a person who has been defamed can seek damages from the perpetrator.
Defamation – Slander A claim for slander includes the elements for defamation, which are: “(1) a false and defamatory statement, (2) unprivileged publication to a third person, (3) fault, amounting to at least negligence, and (4) actual or presumed damages.” Additionally, the defamatory statement must be made orally.
First get a civil Lawyer. Second in the case of slander have a video recording of the person making the statements. In the case of Libel, have copies of the written attacks for your Lawyer. Third Keep a record of all damages the attacks cause!
It can be difficult to win a slander lawsuit because you must prove you were damaged by a spoken statement. Proving injury can be more difficult than in a libel claim, which is the type of lawsuit you would file if you were falsely defamed in writing.
In some states, general damages are allowed in libel (written) but not slander (verbal) defamation cases. In other states, victims of slander can recover general damages, but only when the false statement is obviously harmful (called "slander per se") and caused the plaintiff financial harm.
Generally, to prove defamation, you must show that a false statement was made, about you, to third parties, and which caused you damage. Once you have evaluated your case, and determined that you can satisfy these elements, you can then proceed with pursuing your matter.
The most common defenses to defamation are: 1) truth; 2) consent; 3) privilege; and 4) the statute of limitations. Perhaps the most distinct aspect of the defamation cause of action is that falsity is required. In other words, the statement publicized about the plaintiff must be false in order to prove defamation.
What is The Statute of Limitations in My State? – State Defamation Law Chart StateStatute of Limitations Nevada 2 year statute of limitations for defamation action New Hampshire 3 year statute of limitations for defamation action New Jersey 1 year statute of limitations for defamation action23 more rows •
A claim for slander includes the elements for defamation, which are: “(1) a false and defamatory statement, (2) unprivileged publication to a third person, (3) fault, amounting to at least negligence, and (4) actual or presumed damages.” Additionally, the defamatory statement must be made orally.
Truth, or substantial truth, is a complete defense to a claim of defamation.