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Legal Concepts in Defamation Quiz

#1

What is defamation?

A false statement that harms someone's reputation
Explanation

Defamation 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
Explanation

Slander 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
Explanation

Intention 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
Explanation

Plaintiffs 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
Explanation

Presumed 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
Explanation

Defamation 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
Explanation

Truth 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
Explanation

Extrapolation is not a recognized form of defamation.

#9

Which of the following is not a defense against a defamation claim?

Mistake
Explanation

Mistake 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
Explanation

Damage 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
Explanation

New 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
Explanation

In 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
Explanation

Innuendo 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
Explanation

Privilege 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
Explanation

Res judicata is a legal doctrine preventing plaintiffs from relitigating issues already determined by a final judgment.

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