Libelose

Libelose is a term that refers to the act of publishing false statements that harm the reputation of an individual or entity. It is a form of defamation, specifically written defamation, which distinguishes it from slander, which is spoken defamation. To be considered libelous, a statement must generally be false, be published or communicated to a third party, and cause damage to the reputation of the subject.

The legal standards for proving libel can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the status of the person making the claim. For public figures or officials, the burden of proof is typically higher, requiring demonstration of "actual malice," meaning the publisher knew the statement was false or acted with reckless disregard for its truth. For private individuals, the standard is often negligence, meaning the publisher failed to exercise reasonable care in verifying the truth of the statement.

Libel can occur in various forms of media, including newspapers, magazines, books, websites, social media posts, and even emails. Legal recourse for libel often involves civil lawsuits seeking monetary damages to compensate for reputational harm, emotional distress, and financial losses. In some jurisdictions, libel can also have criminal implications, though this is less common in modern legal systems. The concept of libel is rooted in the protection of individual reputation and the fostering of a responsible media environment.