Final answer:
Libel and slander are considered civil offenses in most states. Those harmed by defamation can sue for damages, but criminal prosecutions are rare. High legal standards apply, especially for public figures due to free speech considerations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the 21st Century, most states regard libel and slander as primarily civil offenses. Libel refers to written defamation, while slander refers to oral defamation. In cases of defamation, it is not uncommon for the aggrieved party, whether a private individual or a public figure, to pursue a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages for harm caused by the defamation. The landmark U.S. Supreme Court case New York Times v. Sullivan set a high bar for public figures to claim defamation, requiring evidence of malicious intent or a reckless disregard for the truth.
While both libel and slander can be damaging to someone's reputation, criminal prosecutions of these are uncommon because the right to freedom of expression is highly valued, and constraints are cautiously applied. Laws that address libel and slander are instead more focused on allowing individuals to recover damages through civil litigation.