Laster
Slander
Slander is the intentional infringement of a person's honour or good name by the imputation of a specific fact that is false.
In Dutch criminal law, slander is criminalized under Article 261 of the Criminal Code. It constitutes a specific form of insult whereby the perpetrator imputes to another person a concrete fact that damages that person's reputation and the falsity of which is capable of being proven.
Slander is distinguished from defamation in that a specific fact is alleged rather than a general negative statement. The penalty may consist of a term of imprisonment or a fine. In civil proceedings, the injured party may also claim damages on the grounds of tort.
In practice, slander frequently arises in media publications, online posts or employment disputes. Lawyers routinely assess whether a statement may be characterized as slander and whether sufficient evidence exists to establish the falsity of the imputed fact.
“The court convicted the defendant of defamation for having made false allegations of fraud on social media.”
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