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Faizan
Libel, also called defamation, is the publication of a false statement about someone that embarrasses or shames them in some way. There are two legal definitions of defamation: slander and libel. Slander involves the spoken word while libel relates to the written word. Companies, groups and individuals can all file libel suits. Take these precautions to avoid libel.
Maryland Slander Laws What Constitutes Slander in New Mexico?
Know the definition of libel. Libel includes defamation in a more permanent medium such as blogging, print publications, film and any other written form. Jonathan Kirsch's book, "Kirsch's Handbook of Publishing Law: For Authors, Publishers, Editors and Agents" provides a detailed definition of what constitutes libel.
Check the facts. If a source references a particular person, verify the source is correct. Verify quotes and testimonials before printing. Keep all sources as back up in case of a libel suit.
Avoid trade libel. Disparaging a product is trade libel and includes making disparaging comments about a company or product.
Test for possible defamation. Determine if the comment is untrue, knowingly false and damaging.
Watch for improper jokes that may harm someone's integrity. Humor isn't always funny. If a joke humiliates, embarrasses or harms another in any way it is cause for a libel suit.
Tips & Warnings
Public officials or public figures have a harder burden to prove libel. They must prove there was malicious intent in addition to defamation.
Seek an attorney if you receive a threat of libel. Refrain from contacting the solicitor of the libel suit without an attorney. As there are many variations and legalities involved with libel, it's best to have a professional handle the situation.
Maryland Slander Laws What Constitutes Slander in New Mexico?
Know the definition of libel. Libel includes defamation in a more permanent medium such as blogging, print publications, film and any other written form. Jonathan Kirsch's book, "Kirsch's Handbook of Publishing Law: For Authors, Publishers, Editors and Agents" provides a detailed definition of what constitutes libel.
Check the facts. If a source references a particular person, verify the source is correct. Verify quotes and testimonials before printing. Keep all sources as back up in case of a libel suit.
Avoid trade libel. Disparaging a product is trade libel and includes making disparaging comments about a company or product.
Test for possible defamation. Determine if the comment is untrue, knowingly false and damaging.
Watch for improper jokes that may harm someone's integrity. Humor isn't always funny. If a joke humiliates, embarrasses or harms another in any way it is cause for a libel suit.
Tips & Warnings
Public officials or public figures have a harder burden to prove libel. They must prove there was malicious intent in addition to defamation.
Seek an attorney if you receive a threat of libel. Refrain from contacting the solicitor of the libel suit without an attorney. As there are many variations and legalities involved with libel, it's best to have a professional handle the situation.
Posted in: Blogging
