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What are the common types of defamation?

The two main types of defamation are libel and slander. Both types can cause serious damage to your personal and professional life, affecting relationships and career opportunities. If you believe someone has defamed you, the Texas online defamation attorney at Sternberg Law Firm can help you understand your rights and guide you toward possible next steps.

How are libel and slander defined under Texas law?

Under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, libel is a false written statement that harms your reputation by exposing you to public hatred, contempt or ridicule. It includes statements that damage your financial standing or question your honesty, integrity or virtue. This law applies to modern forms of communication, such as social media posts and online articles, as well as traditional newspapers and magazines. 

On the other hand, courts define slander as a spoken false statement communicated to a third party that damages your reputation. Searching for a “defamation attorney near me” is a good first step in fighting back against libel and slander claims. 

What is the difference between defamation per se and defamation per quod?

The key difference between defamation per se and defamation per quod lies in how the law views the harm to your reputation. With defamation per se, the statements are so clearly damaging that the law automatically assumes harm to your reputation. These often include false accusations of serious crimes or direct attacks on your professional integrity.

In contrast, defamation per quod involves statements that become harmful only when considered with additional context or details. For these claims, you must specifically prove that the false statement caused you direct financial loss.

Why should you work with a Texas defamation attorney?

Defamation law involves many complexities and potential pitfalls that can weaken your case if not handled properly. Managing an internet defamation claim on your own means facing numerous challenges, including strict deadlines and properly preserving evidence. The Texas statute of limitations for defamation is strictly one year which means any mistakes can be costly.

The process becomes even more complicated if you are a public figure, the issue involves matters of public concern, or the defendant invokes the Texas Citizens Participation Act (TCPA). Overcoming this Texas Anti-SLAPP law requires highly specific legal strategies. An experienced Texas defamation attorney can act as your guide through this complex landscape and help restore your good name.