What’s the difference between Libel & Slander 

As a business owner, it is essential to understand the differences between libel and slander, which are two types of defamation that can harm your business’s reputation. These types of claims can also be used to harm one’s personal reputation as well. Defamation occurs when someone makes a false statement about another person or entity, causing harm to their reputation. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between libel and slander and how they can affect your business. 

Libel vs. Slander 

The main difference between libel and slander is the way the defamatory statement is communicated. Libel is a written or published statement that can be seen by others, while slander is a spoken statement that is heard by others. In other words, libel involves written or printed words, while slander involves spoken words. Libel can occur in various forms, including newspaper articles, blog posts, social media posts, emails, and other written communication. For example, if a blogger writes a false and defamatory post about your business, it could be considered libel. Similarly, if a competitor posts a false statement on your company’s Facebook page, it could also be considered libel.  

Slander occurs when someone makes a false statement about your business orally or verbally. For example, if a former employee tells a customer that your business engages in unethical practices, it could be considered slander. Another example is if a competitor spreads false rumors about your business to potential customers. 

Proving Defamation 

In order to prove defamation, you must show that the statement made about your business was false and that it caused harm to your reputation. If the statement is true, it cannot be considered defamation. Additionally, you must demonstrate that the statement was made with the intention of causing harm or with reckless disregard for the truth. If your business has been defamed, there are legal remedies available to you. You may be able to sue for damages, including compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages are intended to compensate you for the harm caused by the defamation, while punitive damages are designed to punish the person or entity responsible for the defamation. 

In summary, it is essential to understand the differences between libel and slander and how they can affect your business. Libel involves written or published statements, while slander involves spoken statements. If your business has been defamed, you may be able to seek legal remedies, including compensatory and punitive damages. As a business owner, it is important to protect your reputation by taking appropriate action if your business has been defamed. 

Helping Clients Protect Their Reputations 

Our commercial litigation attorneys at McCune Law Group can help clients protect against libel and slander by providing expert legal guidance and representation. This can include reviewing potential defamation cases and determining if there are grounds for legal action. MLG can also assist in sending cease and desist letters to individuals or entities who are making defamatory statements about a client’s business. Additionally, MLG can represent clients in court to seek damages for harm caused by defamatory statements. By working with McCune Law Group, clients can take steps to protect their reputation and act against those who have made false and harmful statements about their business.