Libel is defined as the defamation of a person, business, group, product, government, or nation that is made in written or printed words or pictures. In order to be libel, the claim must be in writing, it must be false and the person making it must state or imply that it is factual. In other words, libel means printing or implying something negative as if it were true, when it is not. The publication where the libel occurs is assumed to be read by persons other than the person defamed.
Slander, another legal term, is also a false, defamatory, and often malicious statement. The difference between slander and libel is that slander is spoken and libel refers to written words and pictures. Libel covers any form of defamation other than spoken words or gestures.
Several factors must be in place to prove that libel has occurred.
There are four kinds of libel that are considered defamation per se, meaning that proof of damages is not needed. These include:
To successfully sue for libel in these cases, the claimant only needs to prove that the statement was published.
If you believe you have a claim for libel, you should contact an attorney. An attorney who specializes in defamation cases will be able to tell you whether or not you have a case and will help you put together the evidence so that you will be properly compensated for any damages you suffered as a result of the libel.