DocketXSlander
Slander is a false spoken statement that harms someone's reputation.
What it actually is
Slander is a form of defamation involving oral communication of a false statement that injures a person's character or reputation. In a lawsuit, the plaintiff must typically prove that the statement was false, communicated to a third party, and caused measurable harm (known as special damages), unless the statement falls into a category considered inherently harmful (slander per se).
Why it matters in your case
Because slander requires proof of actual financial or reputational harm in most cases, a plaintiff must present concrete evidence of damages, not just hurt feelings. This makes slander cases more fact-intensive and harder to prove than some other legal claims.
The common misunderstanding
People often confuse slander with libel, but slander is spoken while libel is written or published. Another common mistake is assuming that any insult or offensive remark qualifies as slander; in reality, the statement must be false and cause actual harm.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.