1. Hi-Lights I
Chapter 2 – libel law

2. Libel law Journalists need to be prepared to take on libel charges
Students are NOT exempt from libel law!

3. Libel law Laws are complicated and change from state to state
Rarely a crime – usually a civil action – citizen vs. citizen
Penalty = $

4. Defenses against libel
Truth!
Avoid invasion of privacy – pg. 42 – face libel charges if information no longer relevant Burglary charge example

5. Defenses against libel
Be careful of quotes; even if you quote and attribute accurately, you can be sued for libel because you spread the libel.
PRIVILEGED STATEMENT – official reporting from the floor of congress, state legislature, or courtroom is immune to libel charges . . .

6. Fair Comment
In a review, if your facts are correct, your opinion is protected.
“Romeo and Juliet is horrible” – okay
“Romeo and Juliet is horrible play because Romeo survives” = not okay.