Defamation Flashcards
Defamation elements?
D must make a defamatory statement specifically identifying the plaintiff
There must be publication of the statement
There must be damage to the reputation of the plaintiff
A statement is considered to be defamatory when it does what?
Adversely affects reputation.
John Doe is a no-good, son of a bitch. Defamatory statement?
No. Mere insults not enough for defamation.
John Doe is embezzling money from his clients. Defamatory statement?
Yes. Statement of fact reflects negatively on his character
A defamatory statement must specifically identify . . .
the plaintiff
A defamatory statement must expressly identify a specific individual. T or F?
No, just needs to be so that a specific person can be identified.
Is there liable for defamation of a dead person?
No.
The word “publication” in the defamation context means
It has been intentionally or negligently communicated to a third person.
“Publication” requires just intentional or negligent communication to how many people?
Just one “third person.”
If “publication” requires dissemination to just one person, why is the number of people who ultimately hear the information important?
Measure of damages.
Under traditional CL rules, _____ are presumed in certain types of defamation litigation.
damages
Libel involves a case in which the defamatory statement is . . .
Written, printed, or recorded.
Slander involves a case in which the defamatory statement is . . .
Oral or spoken.
Very hurtful slander is treated like _____.
Libel
In a slander per se case, plaintiff does not need to do what?
Doesn’t need to prove damages
What are the four categories of slander per se?
Statement relating to plaintiff’s business or profession
Statement that plaintiff committed a serious crime.
Statement that “imputes unchastity to a woman”
Statement indicating that the plaintiff suffers from a loathsome disease (e.g., leprosy, STDs)
Slander NOT per se requires evidence of _____ to get to the jury.
Damages
Slander per se does not require evidence of ________ to get to the jury.
Damages
Evidence of damages must show what type of harm?
Economic.
Is consent a defense for defamation?
Yes
Is truth a defense for defamation?
Yes
T or F? Truth defeats a defamation claim.
True
What are the two Privilege subgroups?
Absolute
Qualified
Absolute privilege from defamation is usually conferred based on whose status?
Defendant’s