#1
What is defamation?
A false statement that harms someone's reputation
ExplanationDefamation involves making false statements that damage a person's reputation.
#2
What is the difference between slander and libel?
Slander is spoken defamation, while libel is written defamation
ExplanationSlander is verbal defamation, whereas libel involves written or published false statements.
#3
Which of the following is NOT a common defense in a defamation case?
Intention
ExplanationIntention is not typically a common defense against defamation claims.
#4
Which of the following elements must be proven by a plaintiff in a defamation lawsuit?
Publication
ExplanationPlaintiffs in defamation lawsuits must prove that the false statement was published or communicated to a third party.
#5
In defamation cases, what is the term for damages that are presumed to have occurred without the need for specific evidence of harm?
Presumed damages
ExplanationPresumed damages in defamation cases are assumed to have occurred without the need for specific evidence of harm.
#6
Which of the following is not a requirement for a statement to be considered defamatory?
It must be made in writing
ExplanationDefamation does not require statements to be made in writing.
#7
In a defamation case, truth is usually a complete defense. Which legal principle does this illustrate?
Absolute privilege
ExplanationTruth as a defense in defamation cases reflects the legal principle of absolute privilege.
#8
Which of the following is NOT a form of defamation?
Extrapolation
ExplanationExtrapolation is not a recognized form of defamation.
#9
Which of the following is not a defense against a defamation claim?
Mistake
ExplanationMistake is not typically considered a valid defense against defamation claims.
#10
What is the legal term for damage to reputation caused by defamation?
Defamation per se
ExplanationDamage to reputation in defamation cases is termed 'defamation per se,' indicating inherent harm.
#11
In the United States, public figures face a higher burden of proof in defamation cases. Which landmark case established this principle?
New York Times Co. v. Sullivan
ExplanationNew York Times Co. v. Sullivan established the higher burden of proof for defamation cases involving public figures.
#12
What does the legal term 'per se' mean in defamation cases?
Inherently harmful
ExplanationIn defamation cases, 'per se' signifies statements that are inherently harmful without further proof.
#13
What is the legal term for a statement that implies something derogatory about someone without explicitly stating it?
Innuendo
ExplanationInnuendo refers to statements that imply derogatory meanings without explicitly stating them.
#14
What is the term for a legal defense that protects a defendant who has made a defamatory statement in good faith and for a proper purpose?
Privilege
ExplanationPrivilege is a legal defense that protects defendants who make defamatory statements in good faith and for proper purposes.
#15
What is the term for a legal doctrine that prevents a plaintiff from relitigating an issue that has already been determined by a final judgment?
Res judicata
ExplanationRes judicata is a legal doctrine preventing plaintiffs from relitigating issues already determined by a final judgment.