Character Defamation

Character Defamation

If an individual is attacked by some people and he suffers physical injury, he can file a complaint against the attackers. But, what if someone makes a derogatory statement against you and due to that, you are facing contempt and ridicule in your neighborhood or workplace. Can you sue that person? You can file a character defamation suit against that person. This article will provide you with more information about the various aspects of character defamation.
If a person makes any false statement (oral or written) about another living person and due to that, the latter is subjected to humiliation, ridicule, contempt and hatred, then, this type of personal injury caused to the reputation or character of the latter is called character defamation. Such statements may even affect the trade or occupation of the latter. Even though, there is no physical injury involved, the latter is entitled to sue the former for character defamation, as his reputation or character is hurt, due to the action of the former. This can be illustrated with an example. A makes a false allegation that B is having some contagious skin disease. This affects B, who is working as a chef in a reputed restaurant. B's colleagues shunned him and he lost his job. The same thing happens if A alleges that B is an immoral or corrupt person. In these circumstances, B can file a character defamation lawsuit.
In general, defamation can be defined as the action of a person, who makes a false statement about another, who suffers harm. If the false statement is made through a fixed medium, like, newspaper, TV, radio, magazines, etc., then, it is called libel. If it is through a non fixed medium, (usually orally stated), then, this type of defamation is called slander. Read more on slander vs libel.
Necessary Elements that Constitute Defamation
Defamation is one of the difficult cases to prove before a court. First of all, the plaintiff, who is suing for character defamation must prove the necessary elements that constitute the cause of action. The primary ingredient is the false and derogatory statement made about the plaintiff. The next element is circulating this statement to people other than the defamed person. The statement must be about the plaintiff or something of his/her concern. Such statement harms the reputation of the plaintiff and causes mental anguish. The plaintiff must be a living person, as most regional laws allow defamation suits, only if the plaintiff is a living person.
The plaintiff has to prove that these elements are present in his case. In some cases, the courts recognize 'per se' defamation (only in certain jurisdictions), wherein the courts presume that the allegation has caused harm to the plaintiff. For example, if a person makes a false allegation that another is an immoral and unchaste person, then, it can be presumed that such statements can affect the life of the plaintiff. Both individuals and legal entities can sue for defamation. While, most of the character defamation cases are civil actions, some countries recognize criminal defamation cases, wherein the defendant can be awarded damages as well as criminal prosecution. It has been observed that a criminal action for defamation is taken if the action of the defendant has affected the community as a whole or may affect the peace of the territory. In cases of civil suits for character defamation, the defendant can be ordered to provide damages. Even punitive damages can be awarded.
Common Defenses in Defamation Cases
Defamation cases are common, especially those with regard to character defamation in the workplace. But, such cases are difficult to prove and the defendants have various defenses. One of the most important defenses is 'truth'. A defendant can prove that the allegation or statement made about the plaintiff is true. Another valid defense is 'privilege', wherein the statements made can be legally shielded. This includes statements made by the witness in a court of law, or those by lawyers or judges in a court, or by legislators on the floor of the legislature, etc. 'Fair comment' is another defense, wherein the statement is made in public interest. For example, a statement regarding a minister indulging in corruption, can be excused as it was done in public interest.
'Innocent dissemination' is conveying or transmitting the message, without any awareness about the content. A postman cannot be sued for delivering a letter with defamatory content. It may also happen that the defendant may contend that the allegation was done with the consent of the plaintiff.
So, proving character defamation can be difficult. As the defamation laws may vary from one state to another, get a basic understanding about the concerned state law and then, proceed. It is always better to seek legal advice, before suing for slander or libel.