ID · jury_instructions
IDJI 4.80
Definition of defamation
Defamation is the communication of false information which tends to impugn the honesty, integrity, virtue or reputation of the person [or entity] about whom the statement is made, or exposes that person [or entity] to public hatred, contempt or ridicule.
Libel is a form of defamation. Libel is the communication of defamatory information by written words, or by some form that has the characteristics of written words.
Slander is a form of defamation by any other means.
Comment:
Gough v. Tribune-Journal Co., 73 Idaho 173, 177, 249 P.2d 192 (1952). Restatement (Second) of Torts, § 568(1); Restatement (Second) of Torts, § 568(2).
Whether a given incident is libel or slander is a question of law for the court. Use such parts of this instruction as may be necessary to inform the jury for the purposes of the case at bar.
Provenance
- Source
- isc.idaho.gov
- Retrieved
- 2026-08-21
- Edition
- 2026-08-20
- Content hash
e1539718fc4b5176b3933b0a1ad0fcc32e73405afbdd98b5576cd4b184acc9e9
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