A close look at Slander

[Langos]

What is the name of your state? CA

I have read countless threads regarding Slander here, and I would like clarification regarding the malice aspect of the charge.

I always understood slander to require:

1. Untrue statements
2. Knowledge that the statements are untrue.
3. Damages

From what I have seen here, there must also be malice. Isn't the fact that you know the statements to be untrue, and still state them malicious enough?

If someone could please clarify that would be great.

 

[stephenk]

even if you state the lies with a smile on your face and you know the statement is a lie, that is malice.