What is the difference between libel and slander? Slander and libel both refer to defamatory statements. Slander is an oral or spoken defamatory statement while libel refers to written defamatory statements. Read on to learn more about how this could influence you as a business owner in Arizona.

Where to Find Defamatory Statements

There are many different places that you could locate libelous statements today especially given the popularity of the internet. Some of the most common places to see these include:

  • Blog posts
  • Comments on blog posts
  • Internet chatrooms
  • Public comments on media sites
  • Letters to the editor for local newspapers

What About Slander?

Statements of slander however, can be made anywhere and to anyone. If an individual can prove that he or she suffered damages as a result of someone else’s defamatory statements, then that individual who suffered damages may be able to sue for libel or slander. Statements about you that defame your character can be very frustrating, especially if coming from a disgruntled individual who takes things too far. There’s no doubt that these statements, even when untrue, can lead to serious damages for you and your business.

What’s Next if I Think I Have a Case?

Slander and libel cases are notoriously complex because you must be able to demonstrate not just that the statements were made, but also that they caused you some kind of harm. It’s imperative to work with an attorney who has handled serious cases like this before. Without a knowledgeable attorney’s insight, you could be doing damage to your potential case. If someone else’s statements are causing you damage, it’s best to get legal help as soon as possible to limit the potential impact of these claims.

In the event that you believe that someone is guilty of this, you would need to consult with a knowledgeable Arizona business litigation attorney to discuss it in further detail. In the event that your business has been harmed because of someone else’s statements, whether written or oral, you need to consult with an attorney to talk about the facts and evidence that could support your claims as well as your next steps if you do intend to move forward with a lawsuit.

These can be extremely complicated cases and it requires a great deal of research and preparation on your attorney’s part, so you need to consult with someone who has handled cases like this before.

 

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding The Difference Between Libel and Slander, or any other litigation issues, please feel free to contact us at 480.461.5300, log on to udallshumway.com,  or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.