Defamation law allows individuals, corporations, and, in some cases, groups to redress injuries to their reputation caused by false statements made by others about them. A defamatory statement holds a person up to public hatred, ridicule, or scorn, such that the person’s image is damaged and existing and potential relationships are interfered with. Defamatory statements can be made verbally (slander) or in writing (libel). Defamation is important in the context of corporate reputation because defamatory statements that are publicized about an organization may negatively affect stakeholders’ perceptions of the organization. This entry describes the legal process of a defamation lawsuit, including the six essential elements in the plaintiff’s burden of proof; the types of defenses that may be established by the defendant; and the three ...