Santa Maria is a city in Santa Barbara County, on the Central Coast of California. Santa Maria's estimated population in November 2008 was 91,972 and has surpassed that of Santa Barbara, making it the largest city in the county. The estimated population of the area is about 161,227, which includes the Santa Maria Valley, the city of Guadalupe and the unincorporated township of Orcutt. The city is notable for its wine industry and Santa Maria Style Barbecue.

What is defamation libel and slander law?

Defamation is any statement, whether written or oral, that injures the good name or reputation of another person. For a statement to be defamatory, it must not be true.

A defamation designed to be read is libel. Libel also may include harmful statements in a fixed medium, especially writing but also a picture, sign, or electronic broadcast.

An oral defamation is slander. Slander is a harmful statement in a transitory form, especially speech.

Answers to defamation libel and slander law issues in California

The term defamation refers to a false statement made about someone or some organization that is damaging to their...

Federal court opinions concerning defamation libel and slander law in California