People often get confused between
libel and slander, and some even use the terms interchangeably. While the intention of both is similar, legally, both are quite different. A slander lawyer can help to clear up these differences and identify legal nuances related to your situation.
But first, let’s define defamation as per the law.
Any false or derogatory sentence communicated to a third party that results in damage to an individual or business’s reputation is considered defamatory.
Consequently, the victims can pursue charges by filing a
defamation lawsuit. If you’re considering filing one, our experienced slander lawyer in Denver can help.
What is Slander?
While slander is a commonly used term for defamation cases, most cases today are libel as any comments or remarks in a tangible format fall under this category, including videos, pictures, articles, etc.
On the other hand, slander is the act of verbally making derogatory or false remarks. Think of it as starting a rumor that spreads like wildfire.
As per Colorado slander laws, a statement is considered defamatory if it matches the following criteria:
- It is false or derogatory and spoken to a third party
- It is about another person
Related:
What Is Slander and How Can It Impact Your Reputation?
Typically, slander has no permanent record like libel. However, it can occur during TV shows, podcasts, in-person meetings, live broadcasts, and phone conversations. For cases involving media outlets or public figures, specific considerations under
media law must be addressed.
If found guilty, the slanderer (a person that falsifies statements about someone verbally to cause defamation) is charged with penalties and must pay the plaintiff monetary compensation.
Elements of Slander as per Colorado Defamation Laws
Some elements are thoroughly investigated during court proceedings as per Colorado laws to prove whether or not a verbal statement made falls under slander. These elements include the following:
Falsity
The statement made must be false with no element of factual information. If there are actual facts present in the statement, it won’t fall under the category of defamation.
Presented as Fact
The statement must involve the plaintiff or revolve around them. Moreover, the comments should be presented as facts to a third party. If the statement is not presented as a fact, it will be considered an opinion and won’t qualify for a slander lawsuit.
Third-Party Involvement
The statement must be said to a third party that does not include the plaintiff.
Proof of Damage
The plaintiff is required to provide proof that the statement made caused monetary or reputational damage to them. However, this requirement is not applicable to defamation per se cases.
Find a Slander Lawyer at Ernst Legal Group
Become aware of your rights and get your rightful compensation by filing a slander defamation lawsuit. A slander lawyer in Denver at Ernst Legal Group offers the best legal assistance for defamation cases in Colorado.
Call (720) 798-3667 or visit 4155 E Jewell Ave., Suite 500 Denver CO, 80222 for more details.
People often get confused between libel and slander, and some even use the terms interchangeably. While the intention of both is similar, legally, both are quite different. A slander lawyer can help to clear up these differences and identify legal nuances related to your situation.
But first, let’s define defamation as per the law.
Any false or derogatory sentence communicated to a third party that results in damage to an individual or business’s reputation is considered defamatory.
Consequently, the victims can pursue charges by filing a defamation lawsuit. If you’re considering filing one, our experienced slander lawyer in Denver can help.
Some elements are thoroughly investigated during court proceedings as per Colorado laws to prove whether or not a verbal statement made falls under slander. These elements include the following:
