Torts
Slander
Definition
Slander is the form of defamation that occurs through spoken words or transient gestures. Unlike libel, slander generally requires proof of special damages — actual, quantifiable economic loss — unless it falls within the slander per se categories. Slander per se covers false statements imputing a serious crime, a loathsome disease, unfitness in one's business or profession, or serious sexual misconduct. In slander per se cases, damages are presumed.
Example
A person falsely tells a group of colleagues that a coworker embezzles company funds. This spoken accusation of a serious crime constitutes slander per se.