In all actions for printed or spoken defamation, malice is inferred from the character of the charge. However, the existence of malice may be rebutted by proof. In all cases, such proof shall be considered in mitigation of damages. In cases of privileged communications, such proof shall bar a recovery.
History. Orig. Code 1863, § 2917; Code 1868, § 2924; Code 1873, § 2975; Code 1882, § 2975; Civil Code 1895, § 3833; Civil Code 1910, § 4429; Code 1933, § 105-706.
Law reviews.
For comment discussing admissibility of evidence of malice not previously pleaded, in light of Van Gundy v. Wilson, 84 Ga. App. 429 , 66 S.E.2d 93 (1951), see 14 Ga. B. J. 358 (1952).
For article, “Defamation in Georgia Local Government Law: A Brief History,” see 16 Ga. L. Rev. 627 (1982).
Structure Georgia Code
§ 51-5-1. Libel Defined; Publication Prerequisite to Recovery
§ 51-5-2. Newspaper Libel Defined; Publication Prerequisite to Recovery
§ 51-5-3. What Constitutes Publication of Libel
§ 51-5-4. Slander Defined; When Special Damage Required; When Damage Inferred
§ 51-5-5. Inference of Malice; Rebuttal Thereof; Effect of Rebuttal
§ 51-5-6. Truth as Justification
§ 51-5-7. Privileged Communications
§ 51-5-8. Absolute Privilege of Allegations in Pleadings
§ 51-5-9. Right of Action for Malicious Use of Privilege
§ 51-5-10. Liability for Defamatory Statements in Visual or Sound Broadcast; Damages