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reckless disregard

Defined in 1 dictionary — Case Law

Definitions from Case Law

From 390 U.S. 727 - St. Amant v. Thompson · 1968Most cited · 3,837 citing opinions

reckless conduct is not measured by whether a reasonably prudent man would have published, or would have investigated before publishing. There must be sufficient evidence to permit the conclusion that the defendant in fact entertained serious doubts as to the truth of his publication. Publishing with such doubts shows reckless disregard for truth or falsity and demonstrates actual malice.