Defamation Statement Types Explained

Summary

In defamation cases, subjective statements are opinions and not typically defamatory, while objective statements are factual claims that can be proven true or false. A statement like the victim is lying due to mental illness is considered objective, as it makes a factual claim about the victims mental health and truthfulness. This distinction is crucial in determining potential defamation. For specific legal advice, consult a New Jersey attorney.

Full Conversation

If a suspect states to police investgators that the victim is lying due to mental illness, is that a subjective or objective statement?
The statement "the victim is lying due to mental illness" is an objective statement. This is because it makes a factual claim about the victim's mental health and their capacity to tell the truth, which can be proven true or false. In defamation cases, such statements can be scrutinized for their truthfulness. Would you like to know more about defamation laws in New Jersey?