Libel Flashcard

Front

What is libel?

Back

Libel is a false statement published in a permanent form that injures a person's reputation.

Front

Can editors of a student newspaper be held liable for libelous statements made by others?

Back

Yes, editors can be held responsible for publishing libelous statements even if made by someone else.

Front

Is truth a defense against a libel claim?

Back

Yes, truth is an absolute defense to a libel claim.

Front

Can material published on an opinion page be considered libelous?

Back

Yes, material on an opinion page can still be libelous if it contains false statements.

Front

Are all false statements of fact considered libelous?

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No, not all false statements of fact are libelous; they must also meet certain criteria.

Front

What is the difference between libel and slander?

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Libel refers to written defamation, while slander refers to spoken defamation.

Front

What must a plaintiff prove to win a libel case?

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A plaintiff must prove that the statement was false, damaging, and made with negligence or actual malice.

Front

What does 'actual malice' mean in the context of libel?

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Actual malice means that the statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or with reckless disregard for the truth.

Front

What role does public figure status play in libel cases?

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Public figures must prove actual malice to win a libel case, while private individuals only need to prove negligence.

Front

What is the significance of 'negligence' in libel law?

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Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care in publishing information that could harm someone's reputation.