• Defamation laws in Mississippi require only the defamatory words be spoken.job image by Yvonne Bogdanski from Fotolia.com
  
  Defamation laws exist to protect individuals from false and defamatory statements that attack the person's character or standing. Mississippi is one of the few states in the U.S. that approaches the law from the strict viewpoint of the words regardless of any damage caused.
  
  

Definition

• Mississippi defines defamation as false words or publication exposing a person to contempt, ridicule or hatred. The results of defamation also can include a person who suffers injury in his trade or occupation. Defamation includes slander, which is spoken defamation, and libel, which involves the written word.
  
  

Defamation per se

• Mississippi is one of six states that makes no distinction between defamation per se and defamation per quod. In defamation per se, the words spoken are all it takes to label the statement as defamation. In the states requiring per quod, the context of the words determine the defamatory statement. The difference between the two charges determines the damages awarded. In defamation per se cases, no real damages need be established; the speaking of the words is all it takes to file charges.
  
  

Legislative Intent

• Mississippi's State Legislature is immune in a number of areas including libel, slander and defamation. Mississippi laws also make police and law enforcement officials immune from liability in defamation action.