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Sheboygan Personal Injury Lawyers

What is Defamation?

Defamation is also known as vilification, slander, and libel. It is communication of a false claim which is expressed as factual and may result in a negative image of an individual, business, product, group, government, or nation. Slander refers to a malicious verbal report, whereas libel is in print, such as writing or an image. Public disclosure of private facts is also related to defamation if the information is not of public concern and could cause harm.

Other Types of Defamation

False light laws are in place to protect a person’s mental or emotional wellbeing. Information that is technically false is considered defamation. However, information which is not technically false but is misleading can be filed as a tort of false light.

Common law places defamation in the torts of slander where it is in transitory form and libel where it is in a fixed medium, each of which gives a common law right of action.

Penalties for Defamation

Various nations have criminal penalties for defamation. They differ in conditions in determining if the offense occurred. The Global Campaign for Free Expression has made global maps which chart out the nations which have anti-defamation legislation. The laws are primarily in place to defend political leaders.

If you have been injured due to slander or libel, seek the advice of an experienced attorney right away to determine if you have a claim. There are time limitations in which a claim can be filed after an event, so it is important to act promptly. Contact the Sheboygan personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Habush Habush & Rottier by dialing 1-866-888-3620 today for a free consultation.