MC 3080 Chapter : J Libel Oct 2
Document Summary
Ny times v. sullivan , 1974 rules for libel verdicts: falsity is not enough . Must be fault: public officials must prove actual malice. Malicious publication of anything that tends to expose any person to hatred contempt or ridicule or to deprive the benefits of public confidence or social intercourse. Falsity: why ok: why isn"t truth the standard, why are falsehoods protected. Whatever is added to libel takes away from public debate. Libel: who"s a public figure: curtis publishing v. butts, 1966, ga athletic director accused of conspiring to fix games. Yes: professor who applies for federal funds, no, unless they are famous for another reason. Lawyers: no, unless they have a famous defendant and they thrust themselves into public eye with the case. Libel proof standards: gertz v. robert welch, 1974, chicago lawyer hired by family of man slain by police, not involved in criminal prosecution of police.
