Slander Per Se

Pronunciation: SLAN-der PUR SAY

Torts › Defamation

Definition

Spoken defamation of special categories where damages are presumed without proof of actual harm. Four categories: (1) criminal behavior, (2) loathsome disease, (3) improper conduct in business/profession, (4) sexual misconduct (unchastity of woman in some states). All other slander requires proof of special damages.

Related terms

• Defamation — False statement of fact about plaintiff published to third party that damages plaintiff's reputation. Two forms: libel (written)…
• Libel Per Se — Written defamation presumptively harmful requiring no proof of special damages. Includes same categories as slander per se plus…

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