M Civ JI 118.02 Slander - Definition

Slander is a statement *(of fact) which is false in some material respect and is communicated to a third person by [ words / gestures ] and has a tendency to harm a person’s reputation.

Note on Use

*The words in parentheses should be used if the alleged defamatory statement is one of pure fact. They should not be used if the alleged defamatory statement involves opinion and fact. Gertz v Robert Welch, Inc, 418 US 323; 94 S Ct 2997; 41 L Ed 2d 789 (1974); Restatement (Second) of Torts §566, at 170–171.

Comment

Watson v Detroit Journal Co, 143 Mich 430; 107 NW 81 (1906). A statement of pure opinion is not actionable. Gertz.

History

M Civ JI 118.02 was added August 1983.