When Slander Becomes a Crime: Understanding Oklahoma’s Laws
When is slander charged as a criminal offense in the state of Oklahoma? Generally, slander is a civil lawsuit where someone sues for monetary damages due to false statements causing harm. However, in Oklahoma, there is a law (21 Section 781) that makes spreading false rumors of a slanderous nature a misdemeanor criminal offense.
According to the law, if someone willfully, knowingly, or maliciously repeats or communicates a false rumor that is detrimental to another person’s character, they can be fined or even serve jail time. While this law is rarely prosecuted due to First Amendment protections, there have been cases where individuals have faced criminal charges for spreading false rumors.
When is Slander a Criminal Offense?
While civil lawsuits for slander are more common, criminal charges may arise in rare cases. One such instance is when a false rumor is spread about a prosecutor, as seen in a case in Lawton where the defendant was charged under Section 781 for spreading false information on Facebook.
It is essential to understand the legal implications of spreading false rumors and the potential consequences, especially when it involves public officials like prosecutors. If you have questions or concerns about criminal charges in Oklahoma, it is crucial to seek legal counsel to navigate the complexities of the law.
Schedule a Low-Cost Initial Strategy Session
If you are facing criminal charges or have legal questions in Oklahoma, contact Tulsa attorney James Wirth for a detailed plan of action and legal advice. Schedule a low-cost initial strategy session by calling 918-879-1681 or visiting MakeLawEasy.com to book an appointment with an experienced Tulsa criminal defense attorney.
