Defamation or "defamation of character" is spoken or written words that falsely and negatively reflect on a living person's reputation.

If a person or the news media says or writes something about you that harms your reputation, or that keeps people from associating with you, defamation has occurred. Slander is oral defamation, and libel is written defamation.

If you have been harmed by the defamatory remarks or statements of another, seek the advice of a libel and slander attorney in your area.