Defamation Law In Singapore: When To Sue For Defamation?

by 4 August 2021Knowledge & Insights, Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Defamation

When a widow was called a “rotten woman” and accused of misappropriating company funds by her sister-in-law, she sued for defamation and was awarded $40,000 in damages. But how did her sister-in-law’s remarks constitute defamation? How does the Court rule in defamation cases? What does the defamation law in Singapore say about this case? 

If you’re considering filing a defamation suit, it’s important to know what constitutes defamation – but it’s not always possible for people to determine whether something said about them is defamatory or not until they consult an attorney. Seeking legal advice from an experienced law firm in Singapore is one of the best ways to legally protect yourself while getting the best possible chance of winning your case and obtaining compensation.

 

Definition Of Defamation

Defamation is often interchangeably used with “libel” and “slander” — but there are apparent distinctions. For instance, libel and slander are considered two types of defamation. Libel is a defamatory statement which has been written, or published in print. Meanwhile, slander is a defamatory statement that has been made verbally.

Singapore’s Defamation Act states that defamation can take place on any type of medium:

  • Print
  • Telecommunications
  • Broadcast media
  • Visuals (images, infographics, signage)
  • Words (gestures and other methods of conveying meaning)

If charged, the instigator (person who made the defamatory statement) can face trial in civil Courts. At the conclusion of Court proceedings, they will be sentenced either by a fine and/or up to 24 months of jail time.

 

What Is Considered Defamation In Singapore?

Defamation in Singapore is covered by section 499 of the Penal Code, which means it constitutes a criminal offence, and the perpetrator may be arrested by the police if so warranted.

Additionally, defamation can also give rise to a civil suit under the tort of defamation and the Defamation Act. According to the tort of defamation, written and spoken words can constitute libel and slander respectively, and the victim can pursue a case against the perpetrator to pursue compensation (usually in financial form) or an injunction (a Court order to cease and desist).

As the plaintiff (victim), you must prove the following to show defamation:

The Statement In Question Must Be Defamatory

For example, it must have harmed your reputation, exposed you to contempt, or caused you to be shunned or exposed to ridicule by society. In the case of the widow above, the judge found that the statements made by her sister-in-law were “clearly defamatory” because they were intended to damage her reputation in front of her business associates and staff.

The Statement In Question Must Pertain To The Victim

It must be clear that the person making the defamatory statement was referring to you, either by mentioning your name, showing a picture, or providing other forms of identifiable information. 

The Statement In Question Must Have Been Published Or Communicated To A Third Party 

As far as defamation cases go, if a tree falls in a forest and there’s no one to hear it, it doesn’t make a sound. The courts also often take into consideration the “audience size” of the defamatory statement when calculating damages to be awarded to the victim. This means you need to gather sufficient evidence to prove other people have read the defamatory statement, leading to a negative impact on your reputation.

The Courtcourts also often take into consideration the “audience size” of the defamatory statement when calculating damages to be awarded to the victim. For example, if someone has published something untrue about you on a social media post, you can use a viewing counter to determine how many hits and engagements the post has gotten.

Remember, the strength of a defamation case does not lie on how many people have read the defamatory material. But the greater the “audience size”, the more chances of the victim (you) being awarded higher damages.

 

What Are The Possible Defences To Defamation?

The accused can claim that a statement is not defamatory if they can prove one of the following defences, as covered by the Defamation Act:

  1. Justification: The defendant proves that the statement in question is true and factual. 
  2. Fair comment: The defendant proves that the statement in question was an honest, fair-minded opinion based on true facts. This defence will not stand, however, if the statement was motivated by malice, intent to injure, or intent to stir controversy. 
  3. Innocent dissemination: The defendant proves that they did not know the publication of the statement in question would be libellous. This defence is usually available to intermediaries, such as libraries or publishers, who can prove they were not negligent in their duty to screen for libel. 
  4. Offer of Amends: The defendant proves that the statement in question was made ‘innocently’, and offers to make a public apology and inform recipients that the contents of the statement were defamatory. 
  5. Absolute and qualified privilege: There are certain situations where immunity is granted against defamation, such as to Members of Parliament during the course of parliamentary proceedings, or to judges and counsel during the course of judicial proceedings. 
  6. Prior assent before the action of defamation: The defendant proves that they received clear and undisputed consent from the plaintiff (victim) to publish the statement in question.  

 

What Are The Possible Outcomes Of A Defamation Lawsuit?

After you’ve raised a defamation case against a perpetrator, and if they are found guilty in the Court of law, there are two possible remedies that may be issued, either to ease the distress you’ve suffered or to repair your damaged reputation. 

Monetary Damages

When deciding on the amount to be awarded, the Court will consider the following factors:

  • The gravity of the statement
  • The effect of the statement
  • The extent of the publication

Injunctions

These are Court orders issued to the perpetrator to cease and desist, and can either be: 

  • Prohibitory, which requires that they stop future publications of the defamatory statement; or
  • Interlocutory, which requires that they retract the defamatory statement they’ve made. 

 

Receive The Legal Advice You Need By Consulting An Experienced Law Firm In Singapore

There are many factors to consider before deciding whether or not to pursue a legal course of action in a defamation case. It is paramount to weigh the pros and cons and consult with an attorney as soon as possible in order to make an informed decision that will be best for your specific situation. Remember, defamation suits can be either criminal or civil in nature.

At Tembusu Law, we’re committed to providing top-notch legal advice that’s personalised to your circumstances. Our team of highly experienced civil and criminal lawyers in Singapore is here to support you in your fight for justice. Get in touch with us today for any professional litigation and dispute management advice you may need. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions On Defamation Law In Singapore

Can I Sue Someone For Defamation In Singapore?

Yes. If someone has made a defamatory statement against you, you can press charges and have them tried in the Court of Law. Defamation in Singapore is a criminal offence under the Penal Code and you can sue the instigator and be awarded damages if successful.

Is It Hard To Win A Defamation Case?

Winning a defamation lawsuit can be difficult, as it’s often difficult to prove whether or not a false statement caused actual damage to someone’s reputation. If you strongly feel you’re a victim of defamation, call our lawyers in Singapore to understand your legal options.

Is Defamation In Singapore Criminal Or Civil?

Defamation in Singapore can either lead to a criminal or civil case. The Penal Code states it’s a criminal offence, while the Defamation Act outlines civil actions based on the defamation tort.

Do You Need Evidence To Sue For Defamation In Singapore?

Yes. A defamation lawsuit will be more successful if the victim provides enough evidence before the Court that the slander or libel has caused them injury (damaged reputation, emotional distress, etc.) You can also prove the statement made against you was false.

About the author

About the author

Jonathan Wong

Jonathan is the Founder and Managing Director of Tembusu Law. He is also the founder of LawGuide Singapore, a prominent legaltech startup which successfully created and launched Singapore’s first legal chatbot in 2017.

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