The terms slander, libel, and defamation are used interchangeably and often incorrectly. In the most extreme cases, a lack of integrity and fact-checking can threaten democracy and leave an … Defamation is an area of law that provides a civil remedy when someone's words end up causing harm to your reputation or your livelihood. Defamation vs. Slander vs. Libel vs. Slander. Slander is any defamation that is spoken and heard. Libel is any Defamation that can be seen, such as a writing, printing, effigy, movie, or statue. Defining Terms Like “Defamation,” “Libel” and “Slander” But the harm that stems from misinformation and conspiracies runs deeper than one firm’s or outlet’s credibility. Two torts that involve the communication of false information about a person, a group, or an entity such as a corporation. They are all tied together in a web made up of lies and false statements. Libel refers to a written falsehood. Truth is always a defense to any kind of defamation suit, even if the truth is ugly and hurtful to the person about whom it is spoken. Both are types of defamation, but what differentiates them? The result of slander or libel is “defamation”. The difference between the two is the medium in which the defamation occurs. Libel and Slander. Defamation is a tort, which is a legal term for a non-contract civil wrong. Courts take libel more seriously than slander because of the everlasting impact. Spoken defamation is known as slander, while written defamation is libel. Slander is a defamatory statement in the oral form. Libel is written and slander is spoken. The First Amendment rights of free speech and free press often clash with the interests served by defamation law. Libel generally refers to written defamation, while slander refers to oral defamation, though much spoken speech that has a written transcript also falls under the rubric of libel. Libel and slander are forms of defamation, which is an untrue statement presented as fact and intended to damage a person’s character or reputation. Explore the difference between slander and libel with definitions, examples, and consequences. Similarly, courts take slanderous claims on live broadcast television to a large audience serious as well. Is Libel more serious than slander? Libel vs slander difference. Essentially it’s like a personal injury, but instead of an injury that causes bodily harm, this one causes damage to one’s reputation. Libel. Because libel is tangible, it is therefore long-lasting. Libel is a defamatory statement made in writing, while slander is a defamatory statement that is spoken. Slander, on the other hand, refers to an oral defamatory statement. Another important point is that defamation is usually either spoken or written. Libel is a kind of defamatory statements in the written form. Libel is a written or published defamatory statement, while slander is defamation that is spoken by the defendant. However, slander and libel are not the same. The difference between libel and slander hinges upon how the falsehood was made. Opinions are outside of that web, but it is important to know why they don’t belong with the others. So sit back and get ready for a … Note that libel can include forms of communication other than printed publications, such as faked pictures or social media.