Libelous Statements Must Be Specifically Identified
Enough!
Enough of the vague allegations that leave defamation defense counsel (like myself) wondering what you mean when you plead, for example, that "defendant made statements indicating that plaintiff is dishonest and is a liar." That is not enough to properly state a cause of action for libel or defamation!
“The general rule is that the words constituting an alleged libel must be specifically identified, if not pleaded verbatim, in the complaint. [Citations.]” (Kahn v. Bower (1991) 232 Cal.App.3d 1599, 1612, fn. 5, 284 Cal.Rptr. 244.)
Failing to specifically identify each and every alleged libelous statement may lead to serious consequences.
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Can a person be sued for libeling an internet handle or pseudonym, or "only" using the "first" name of the person who claims defamation, i.e. Bill, Bob or Steve? I hope you have time to answer Mr. Faccheti. Also, if a person libels someone on the internet, from California, can they be held accountable only in California or both states, if the suing party lives out of state? Thankyou. Mr. Fanchetti.