The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and press, but that does not mean that speech is entirely unfettered. One area where speech can become entangled in legal issues is the realm of libel law. In the state of Virginia, as in other states, the laws regarding defamation can seem murky and complex. However, understanding the basic rules and consequences of Virginia's libel laws can help individuals and organizations avoid legal entanglements and protect their reputations. What is libel? At its most basic level, libel is a civil tort that occurs when a person or organization publishes false statements that harm the reputation of another person or entity. "Publication" in this context can refer to a wide range of media, including print, broadcast, and online. In order for a statement to be considered libelous, it must meet certain criteria. First and foremost, the statement must be false. Opinions or subjective judgments cannot be ...
Practical Legal Guide with Expert Advice