20-11-3. Libel defined.
Libel is a false and unprivileged publication by writing, printing, picture, effigy, or other fixed representation to the eye which exposes any person to hatred, contempt, ridicule, or obloquy, or which causes him to be shunned or avoided, or which has a tendency to injure him in his occupation.
Source: CivC 1877, §29; CL 1887, §2528; RCivC 1903, §29; RC 1919, §95; SDC 1939, §47.0502.
Structure South Dakota Codified Laws
Title 20 - Personal Rights and Obligations
Chapter 11 - Liability For Defamation
Section 20-11-1 - Obligation to refrain from defamation.
Section 20-11-2 - Classes of defamation.
Section 20-11-3 - Libel defined.
Section 20-11-4 - Slander defined.
Section 20-11-5 - Privileged communications--Malice not inferred from publication.
Section 20-11-6 - Radio and television stations not liable if due care exercised.
Section 20-11-8 - Newspaper retraction as rebuttal of presumption of malice.