Understanding Defamation and Slander in Illinois Neighbor Disputes Neighbor disputes can escalate quickly, and sometimes, they cross a line from mere annoyance to actual legal harm. One of the most damaging forms of neighborly conflict involves defamation, where false statements spread about you can significantly impact your reputation, peace of mind, and even your livelihood. In Illinois, understanding your rights and the legal framework surrounding defamation, whether spoken (slander) or written (libel), is crucial if you find yourself targeted by a malicious neighbor. What is Defamation in Illinois? At its core, defamation in Illinois occurs when a false statement of fact about another person is published (communicated to a third party) and causes damage to that person's reputation. It can take two primary forms: 🗣️ Slander: Spoken defamation. This could be a neighbor yelling false accusations across the fence, spreading rumors at a block par...