2021 Georgia Code
Title 51 - Torts
Chapter 5 - Libel and Slander
§ 51-5-2. Newspaper Libel Defined; Publication Prerequisite to Recovery

1. Any false and malicious defamation of another in any newspaper, magazine, or periodical, tending to injure the reputation of the person and expose him to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule, shall constitute a newspaper libel.
2. The publication of the libelous matter is essential to recovery.

(Ga. L. 1893, p. 131, § 1; Civil Code 1895, § 3835; Civil Code 1910, § 4431; Code 1933, § 105-703.)

- For article, "The Supreme Court on Privacy and the Press," see 12 Ga. L. Rev. 215 (1978). For annual survey of tort law, see 58 Mercer L. Rev. 385 (2006). For annual survey on law of torts, see 61 Mercer L. Rev. 335 (2009). For annual survey of law on torts, see 62 Mercer L. Rev. 317 (2010).

ANALYSIS

• General Consideration
• Construction of Words
• Electronic Publication
• Damages
• Jury Issues

RESEARCH REFERENCES

Am. Jur. 2d.

- 50 Am. Jur. 2d, Libel and Slander, §§ 223 et seq., 227 et seq.

- 53 C.J.S., Libel and Slander, §§ 1 et seq., 149 et seq.

- Libelous or privileged character of publication by newspaper based on matter received from news agency or regular correspondent, 86 A.L.R. 475.

Libel and slander: false news reports as to births, betrothals, marriages, divorces, or similar marital matters, 9 A.L.R.3d 559.

Actionability of false newspaper report that plaintiff has been arrested, 93 A.L.R.3d 625.

Libel by newspaper headlines, 95 A.L.R.3d 660.

Defamation: publication of "Letter to Editor" in newspaper as actionable, 99 A.L.R.3d 573.

Defamation: privilege attaching to news report of criminal activities based on information supplied by public safety officers - modern status, 47 A.L.R.4th 718.

Reportorial privilege as to nonconfidential news information, 60 A.L.R.5th 75.

Liability of newspaper for libel and slander - 21st century cases, 22 A.L.R.6th 553.