What is libel?

Libel is defined as defamation that occurs in a written form. This means that when false statements are published or disseminated in a permanent medium, such as books, articles, or social media posts, and those statements harm an individual's reputation, that constitutes libel. The essential elements that distinguish libel from other forms of defamation include the requirement for the statement to be both false and published in a format that can be referenced or reproduced.

In contrast, spoken defamation is categorized as slander, highlighting the distinction between the two forms of defamation. Additionally, a true statement that harms a reputation does not qualify as libel since defamation relies on the falsehood of the statements made. Lastly, expressing an opinion publicly does not automatically meet the criteria for libel unless it involves false statements presented as facts that harm someone's reputation; mere opinions are typically protected under free speech unless they imply an assertion of fact that is demonstrably false.