Truth, or substantial truth, is a complete defense to a claim of defamation.
Defamation in Ohio is defined as any false statement made to a third party that harms a person's reputation, exposing them to public hatred, contempt, ridicule, shame, or disgrace, or impacting their trade or profession adversely. This includes both spoken (slander) and written (libel) statements.
Slander: Simple slander carries a penalty of arresto menor (one day to 30 days of imprisonment) or a fine. Grave slander, however, can result in arresto mayor (one month and one day to six months) or a higher fine.
Section 2739.01 | Libel and slander. In an action for a libel or slander, it is sufficient to state, generally, that the defamatory matter was published or spoken of the plaintiff. If the allegation is denied, the plaintiff must prove the facts, showing that the defamatory matter was published or spoken of him.
Section 2739.02 | Defenses in actions for libel or slander. In an action for a libel or a slander, the defendant may allege and prove the truth of the matter charged as defamatory. Proof of the truth thereof shall be a complete defense. In all such actions any mitigating circumstances may be proved to reduce damages.
Libel and slander are both types of defamation. Libel is an untrue defamatory statement that is made in writing. Slander is an untrue defamatory statement that is spoken orally.
In defamation suits brought by private figure plaintiffs, Ohio courts require a plaintiff to prove by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant "failed to act reasonably in attempting to discover the truth or falsity or defamatory character of the publication." Landsdowne v.
What is Defamation of Character Under Ohio Law? There must exist a false statement of fact, About the plaintiff, Published or communicated to a third party, With at least a negligent level of intent, That was either 'defamatory per se' or caused damage to the plaintiff's reputation.
Ohio Defamation Law: To Win You Need To Prove That… The defendant has either published or broadcast the statement in question. The false statement was about you, the plaintiff. The statement caused harm to the plaintiff's reputation. The published statement was negligently made and merits no privileges.