|
|
What is Libel
Libel is defamation of character caused by written statements.
Libel occurs when false and/or misleading statements are published about you to other people. These written statements damage your reputation and your character.
By published we mean that one or more people other than yourself have heard the false statements. The statements damage your reputation, and would cause people to thing less of you.
If someone send a letter containing defamatory statements only to you then (usually) no libel has occurred. However some states have a law on self-publishing. This occurs when you feel obliged to show another person the letter.
A written false accusation of sexual harassment can frequently constitute libel.
