Crucial Exams

Multistate Bar Examination Practice Question

A journalist publishes an article accusing a local business owner of engaging in fraudulent activities. The article includes allegations from an anonymous source that are damaging to the business owner’s reputation. The business owner files a defamation suit, claiming the article is false and has caused her financial damage. The journalist defends against the lawsuit by invoking the First Amendment and arguing the business owner is a 'public figure.' What must the business owner demonstrate to succeed in her defamation claim?

  • Establish that the anonymous source's allegations alone are insufficient to justify the publication.

  • Prove that the false statements caused significant harm to her reputation and financial loss.

  • Demonstrate that the journalist was negligent in verifying the information from the anonymous source.

  • Show that the journalist acted with knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.

Multistate Bar Examination
Torts
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