Arts & Culture
The Legal Distinction Between Libel and Slander in Defamation
Quick fact
Historically, libel was considered a more serious offense than slander, and courts often required proof of 'special damages' (actual financial loss) for slander unless the statement fell into a special category, while libel was actionable without such proof. This distinction dates back to English common law.
Why this is interesting
You've probably heard of defamation, but did you know that a spoken insult can be treated differently by the law than a written one? Why would the form of your words change the legal consequences?