Yes, calling someone a “criminal” without proof can be considered slander, as it is a false statement that could significantly damage their reputation and is generally considered a defamatory statement per se, meaning it is automatically harmful and does not require additional proof of damage to be actionable in court.
- Slander is spoken defamation:
When a false statement damaging someone’s reputation is spoken, it is considered slander.
- Defamation per se:
Certain types of statements, like accusing someone of committing a crime, are considered “defamation per se” because they are inherently harmful and do not require additional proof of damage.
- Proof required:
To successfully sue for slander, you must prove that the statement was false, published to a third party, made with at least a negligent mental state, and caused actual harm to the person’s reputation.
