Legal Definitions - defamatory statement

Defamatory Statement

A defamatory statement is a false statement of fact, presented as truth, that harms an individual's or organization's reputation. It is a communication that causes reasonable people to think less favorably of the person or entity it refers to, potentially exposing them to public hatred, contempt, ridicule, or dislike.

• Example 1: A rival business owner falsely posts online that a local bakery uses unsanitary practices and expired ingredients in their products.

  Explanation: If these claims are untrue, this statement is defamatory because it directly attacks the bakery's professional reputation and food safety standards. Reasonable customers, upon reading such an accusation, would likely view the bakery with distrust and avoid purchasing their goods, causing significant harm to their business and public image.

• Example 2: During a heated community meeting, a resident falsely accuses a volunteer treasurer of a local non-profit organization of embezzling funds from the group's accounts.

  Explanation: This statement, if false, is defamatory because it falsely imputes criminal behavior and dishonesty to the volunteer treasurer. It would cause other community members to view the treasurer with suspicion and contempt, severely damaging their personal integrity and standing within the community.

• Example 3: A social media influencer publishes a post claiming that a well-known public figure, who is a vocal advocate for environmental causes, secretly owns shares in a company known for significant pollution, despite the public figure having no such investments.

  Explanation: If the public figure does not own shares in the polluting company, this statement is defamatory. It falsely portrays the public figure as hypocritical and deceitful, undermining their credibility and reputation as an environmental advocate. Their followers and the general public would likely lose respect for them, viewing them with contempt or ridicule.