Libel

Libel

1. First Law of Libel

   • Truth is a defense for Libel

2. Second Law of Libel

   • Qualified Privilege = Applies to Government
     • "Report fairly & impartially"
     • Even if what is reported it UNTRUE, BUT you tried for OBJECTIVITY, you have the right to Qualified Privilege.
     • Opposite of QUALIFIED Privilege = ABSOLUTE Privilege.
       • ABSOLUTE PRIVILEGE = Law of Libel for the President, politicians, public officials.

3. Third Law of Libel

   • Fair comment
     • Applies to all opinion writing (blogs/editorials)
       • As long as the writing is not malicious (no intent to harm)
         • Harm = Physical, financial, or harm of character.