Difference Between Libel & Slander

Although you may be accustomed to mixing up slander and libel because they are so similar, there is a correct way to use the terms. Basically both of these terms, slander and libel, are used when referring to any such person, object, or business to give him/her harmful side effects. Most of the time when slander or libel is used towards someone it is false.

Slander is different from libel in that it refers to words that are spoken. Libel is different from slander in that it refers to words that are written.  A common term that brings slander and libel together would be defamation. When the word defamation is used it is just generally referring to any such form of slander or libel. Slander was more so the originator that relates to defamation because it was a frequent occurrence used and easily spread through the power of speech. Libel has become an equal originator because it is also a detrimental way to affect a person, business, or product. Slander would be easier to get away with because it is difficult to prove something that was only “heard” through word of mouth. Libel is easier to prove guilty as it can be proven with the written statement or picture that was used to commit the crime. There are many solid items that could be used to prove libel such as: movies, words in writing, CD’s, tapes, blogs, pictures, DVDs, and many more. If you are being accused of any of these terms: libel, slander, or defamation, you are in definite violation of the common law. A grey area when accusing someone of libel would be any internet proof such as blogs.

Blogs are typically used by any common person to express their opinions and feelings about anything they want. They’re opinions could be potentially negative depending on what their view is on the business, product, or person is. They should not be held accountable because they should be free to express their opinions. You are not restricted to what you say twenty four hours a day as well, so why should any internet conversation be any different? When it comes to libel, it is easy to undo whatever has been done because if anything whatever has been exposed can be undone or hidden. Slander and libel bring about many cases which have people committing honest mistakes. Many people don’t mean to make false accusations or statements but do so, and end up being punished with the terms of a serious crime.

It is also important to make sure there is no miscommunication when it comes to slander and libel. Every little aspect could be defining when it comes to making a judgment between slander, libel, and defamation. The soundest advice would be to avoid slander or libel as a whole and mind your own business. As mothers have always taught us since we were young, “If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”