defamations
Defamations are statements or representations that damage the reputation of a person or organization by presenting false information as fact. In many legal systems defamation is a civil wrong, or tort, and requires that the statement be communicated to someone other than the subject. It covers written, spoken, or broadcast statements.
Two common forms are libel (written or published statements) and slander (spoken statements). Some jurisdictions treat
Core elements typically include: publication to a third party; falsity; identification of the subject; and harm
Common defenses include truth or substantial truth; fair or qualified privilege in certain contexts (such as
Remedies typically involve damages or injunctions. In some jurisdictions criminal defamation laws exist but are controversial.